AS the Zimbabwe Warriors prepare for their challenging AFCON 2025 Group B campaign against regional rivals South Africa, Angola, and continental giants Egypt, the host nation, Morocco, has stressed that its readiness to stage the tournament is the result of a long-term national development strategy, ensuring a top-tier platform for Africa’s biggest competition.
A key official from the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Omar Khyari, confirmed that preparations for AFCON 2025 are proceeding smoothly.
He specifically countered the idea that hosting the tournament is merely a “test” for Morocco’s co-hosting of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
“The Kingdom has been investing in modern stadiums and urban infrastructure for many years, not because of the AFCON, but as part of a broader national development strategy,” Khyari said. “The country did not wait for AFCON nor the World Cup to transform itself.”
This “vision-driven” approach, anchored in the long-term plan of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, means the Warriors and their supporters can expect world-class infrastructure.
Morocco already boasts Africa’s only high-speed train, the Al Boraq, which will aid in travel between the group stage venues, Grand Stade d’Agadir and Grand Stade de Marrakech.
Additionally, new major projects like Africa’s largest hospital in Rabat and significant investments in airports and highways are part of this national transformation.
“These achievements demonstrate that Morocco’s readiness is not event-driven but vision-driven,” he added.
The Warriors, who face their first match against Egypt in Agadir on December 22, will benefit from the host nation’s mature organisational ecosystem.
Khyari confirmed that all nine host venues across the six selected cities are ready, with pitch quality validated through independent audits aligned with CAF and FIFA requirements.
Zimbabwe’s group matches will be played between the Grand Stade d’Agadir and the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
Safety systems, crowd flow, and stadium accessibility have been a priority, ensuring a secure and comfortable environment for all attendees, including the anticipated wave of Zimbabwean and Southern African fans.
Morocco’s robust transportation network is a key asset. The FRMF is collaborating with national transport bodies to reinforce the system during peak periods by increasing train frequencies, expanding domestic flights, and implementing special match-day mobility operations.
This is crucial for fans travelling to support the Warriors in their quest to progress past the group stage for the first time in history.
With the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) urging fans to travel, and Moroccan authorities offering a free electronic visa via the Yalla App for ticket holders, the journey for the Warriors’ support base has been significantly simplified.
Khyari conveyed a message of continental unity and hospitality ahead of the tournament, particularly for the travelling supporters.
“Morocco is deeply honoured to host AFCON 2025, a competition that embodies African unity, talent, and pride… In Morocco, you are at home. You will be welcomed with warmth, hospitality, and the genuine spirit of our country. AFCON 2025 will be a celebration of Africa, and Morocco is ready to host the continent as family,” he said.
This guarantees a welcoming atmosphere for the Warriors as they battle for glory in their challenging Group B encounters in December.