Mohammed V Stadium: Casablanca’s Legendary Home of African Football

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A Landmark of African Football Heritage

Located in the Maârif district of Casablanca, Stade Mohammed V stands as one of the most iconic stadiums in African football history. Inaugurated on March 6, 1955, the venue, affectionately known as “Donor” by locals, has hosted some of the most memorable moments in Moroccan and continental football. With a current capacity of 67,000 spectators, the stadium is fully prepared to stage eight matches of the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2025.

Designed by French architect Achille Dangleterre, the stadium was originally named Stade Marcel-Cerdan, in tribute to the legendary Franco-Moroccan boxer. Over time, it became known as the Stade d’Honneur before adopting its current name during the Mediterranean Games of 1983. Since then, it has undergone several major renovation phases, 1983, 2000, 2016, 2019, and most recently 2025, each aimed at modernizing facilities, improving spectator comfort, and ensuring compliance with FIFA and CAF standards.

Today, the Mohammed V Sports Complex extends far beyond the main pitch. It includes a 15,000-seat indoor arena, an on-site hotel, a covered Olympic swimming pool, a 650 m² media center, and dedicated facilities for conferences, medical care, and anti-doping operations. Together, these elements position the complex as one of Morocco’s most complete and modern sporting hubs.

Home of Casablanca’s Giants and AFCON 2025 Matches

Often described as “the temple of Casablanca football,” Stade Mohammed V is the shared home of Wydad AC and Raja CA. It regularly hosts the Casablanca Derby, Cup Throne finals, and decisive continental fixtures. The stadium has also welcomed numerous matches of the Moroccan national team, reinforcing its reputation as a stage for high-stakes football.

During AFCON 2025, Stade Mohammed V will host six group-stage matches, one round-of-16 tie, and the third-place playoff, confirming Casablanca’s central role in the tournament.

Blending history, architectural identity, and modern standards, Stade Mohammed V remains a cornerstone of African football. As AFCON 2025 approaches, the legendary Donor is once again set to write a new chapter in Casablanca’s rich sporting legacy.

Related:

• CAN 2025 in Morocco: Full Guide to Host Cities and Venues
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• AFCON 2025 Logistics Explained: How Morocco Will Move Fans Between Stadiums
• El Barid (Al Madina) Stadium: A Modern AFCON 2025 Venue in the Heart of Rabat