The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON may have been a tournament defined by on-pitch drama, but its numbers off the field tell an equally compelling story: Morocco emerged as the undisputed champion of the stands.
A recent release of attendance figures shows that the top five highest-attended matches of the tournament were all hosted by Morocco, with the clash against Cameroon drawing a staggering 64,178 spectators, the largest crowd of AFCON 2025. The other Moroccan fixtures against Tanzania 63,894, Mali 63,844, Zambia 62,532, and Comoros 60,180 also ranked among the top five, highlighting the countrys passionate football culture and the pull of top-tier African football.
Outside Morocco, several other matches demonstrated Africas enduring love for football. Malis game against Tunisia attracted 41,982 fans, while Senegal versus DR Congo drew 41,672. Egypt and South Africas encounter also surpassed the 40,000 mark, showing that traditional footballing powerhouses continue to command significant audiences.
Smaller, but still notable crowds were recorded in West and Central Africa, with Cameroon hosting Gabon in front of 35,200 fans, and Ivory Coasts clash with Cameroon drawing 35,165. Though these figures lagged behind Moroccos eye-popping numbers, they underline the continental depth of football enthusiasm.
For Morocco, the figures underline more than just fan interestthey hint at the long-term potential for hosting major sporting events. Improved stadiums, efficient transport, and a football-hungry public combined to create a spectacle that CAF hopes to emulate in future tournaments.
As Africa looks toward AFCON 2027, the Moroccan example serves as a reminder that while trophies are won on the pitch, the heart of the tournament beats in the stands.
Key Takeaways :
Morocco dominated attendance charts, filling stadiums with over 60,000 fans in five matches.
North and West Africa continue to show strong support for continental football.
Record crowds reflect both passion and growing stadium infrastructure across Africa.
