AFCON 2025: Tuesday, December 23 Match Schedule – Four Games to Open Groups C and D

The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 continues to build momentum this Tuesday with a packed and decisive matchday. Four fixtures across Rabat, Tangier, and Fez will officially launch Groups C and D, bringing together title contenders, returning nations, and ambitious outsiders eager to make an early statement.

From the early afternoon kickoff at Stade Al Barid to the late evening clash at the Olympic Stadium in Rabat, this matchday promises intensity, contrasting styles, and crucial points already at stake in the race for qualification.

13:30 DR Congo vs Benin (Group D, El Medina Stadium, Rabat)
16:00 Senegal vs Botswana (Group D, Ibn Batouta Stadium, Tangier)
18:30 Nigeria vs Tanzania (Group C, Fes Sports Complex)
21:00 Tunisia vs Uganda (Group C, Olympic Stadium, Rabat)

DR Congo vs Benin (1:30 PM) – Stade Al Barid, Rabat

Group D action gets underway in Rabat as DR Congo face Benin in a match that carries both sporting significance and symbolic value. For Benin, this AFCON marks a long-awaited return to the continental stage after missing the 2021 and 2023 editions.

The Cheetahs will be hoping to rekindle memories of their historic 2019 campaign in Egypt, when they reached the quarter-finals and eliminated Morocco along the way—still the best achievement in the nation’s AFCON history.

DR Congo arrive with a carefully balanced squad combining experience and renewal. Captain Chancel Mbemba is set to play his sixth AFCON, leading a group that includes eleven players making their tournament debut. Head coach Sébastien Desabre has clearly opted for continuity while injecting fresh energy into the Leopards’ setup.

This will be the third competitive meeting between the two sides, following their 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where DR Congo edged the tie after a draw away and a home victory.

Senegal vs Botswana (4:00 PM) – Grand Stade de Tanger

Defending African champions Senegal begin their AFCON 2025 campaign in Tangier against Botswana, determined to assert their status from the outset. Led by Sadio Mané, the Lions of Teranga are among the tournament favorites and are keen to avoid any early slip-ups.

This match also marks Botswana’s return to the AFCON finals after more than a decade, their last appearance dating back to 2012. Despite being placed in a challenging group alongside Senegal, DR Congo, and Benin, the Zebras approach the contest with confidence and ambition.

Senegal, crowned champions in 2022, are eager to move past the disappointment of their early exit in the previous edition. Head coach Pape Thiaw has emphasized focus, discipline, and respect for every opponent in a tournament where complacency can be costly.

Nigeria vs Tanzania (6:30 PM) – Grand Stade de Fès

Group C kicks off in Fez with a clash between Nigeria and Tanzania, reviving a fixture that dates back more than four decades. Their only previous AFCON meeting came in 1980, when Nigeria opened their campaign with a win before going on to claim their first continental title.

The Super Eagles, three-time AFCON champions, enter the tournament with clear ambitions. With a strong squad and a smooth qualification campaign behind them, Eric Chelle’s side will be looking for a controlled and convincing start.

Tanzania, meanwhile, qualify for their second consecutive AFCON and arrive with nothing to lose. Facing one of Africa’s football giants, the Taifa Stars aim to challenge expectations, showcase their progress, and gain valuable experience on the continental stage.

Tunisia vs Uganda (9:00 PM) – Olympic Stadium, Rabat

The day concludes with an intriguing Group C encounter between Tunisia and Uganda at Rabat’s Olympic Stadium. This will be the third AFCON meeting between the two nations, whose previous encounters have all gone in Tunisia’s favor.

The Carthage Eagles, guided by head coach Sami Trabelsi, arrive with confidence and ambition, encouraged by the quality of Morocco’s infrastructure and familiar playing conditions. Tunisia are determined to make a strong opening statement and secure early points.

Uganda, coached by Paul Put, approach the match with belief and determination. Despite their outsider status, the Cranes are united and motivated, with midfielder Khalid Aucho expressing confidence in the team’s ability to challenge more established opponents through discipline and collective effort.

Broadcast information

All four matches will be broadcast live on Arryadia (TNT), beIN Sports, Canal+ Afrique, Movistar, Channel 4, Ziggo Sport, Sport Italia, and other international networks.