AFCON the Africa Cup of Nations is far more than a football competition. It stands as the pulse of African sport: a vibrant expression of passion, pride, and unity that resonates across the continent. And in 2025 in exactly a months time it returns bigger and bolder than ever.
But where did it all start? The origins of AFCON trace back to 1957, when Sudan hosted the inaugural edition of the tournament. It was a landmark moment for a continent on the cusp of political and cultural change. Only three nations took part Sudan, Egypt, and Ethiopia as South Africa was barred from competing due to apartheid.
The matches unfolded in Khartoum, where Egypt emerged victorious after defeating Ethiopia in the final. That historic win marked the beginning of a new footballing legacy rooted in African pride and resilience. Over the decades, AFCON evolved from a small regional contest into one of the most exhilarating and fiercely contested tournaments in global football.