By Nabakiibi Dorren Malaika
Royal grace and humility set the mood at the AFCON 2025 opening ceremony, as Morocco welcomed Africa to a chilly, rain-soaked Rabat. Despite the cold weather, the stands were full, with Moroccan fans turning up in huge numbers to celebrate the continent’s biggest football showpiece.
One of the standout moments came from Crown Prince Moulay Hassan, who took time to greet and embrace every Moroccan player before kickoff. It wasn’t just ceremonial it felt genuine and respectful, and it connected beautifully with the spirit of African football.
On the pitch, hosts Morocco got their campaign off to a winning start, beating Comoros 2–0 at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah. Brahim Abdelkader Diaz and substitute Ayoub El Kaabi scored the second-half goals that sealed victory in front of a passionate home crowd.
Before the match, fans enjoyed a colourful opening ceremony attended by Crown Prince Moulay Hassan, CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The Prince even showed a bit of flair with a neat ceremonial chip that drew loud applause from the stadium. With a sea of red filling the stands, Morocco blended culture, pride, and football in true AFCON fashion.
Uganda Cranes Shift Focus to Business
With the hosts off to a strong start, attention now turns to Uganda. The Cranes have resumed training ahead of their first group match on 23 December 2025 at the Stade Olympique Annexe, where they face Tunisia.
It’s expected to be a real test physically, tactically, and mentally especially as the team continues adjusting to the cold Moroccan conditions. Ugandans back home will be hoping for discipline, resilience, and belief as the boys step onto the big stage.
Uganda’s second game is on 27 December 2025 against Tanzania at Stade El Barid, a regional clash that could prove crucial in the qualification race. The group stage will wrap up on 30 December 2025 with a showdown against Nigeria at Complexe Sportif de Fès.
