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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jamie Braidwood

Why is the Africa Cup of Nations taking place over Christmas?

Africa Cup of Nations UEFA Champions League AFCON Club World Cup Fifa New Year World Cup
Ivory Coast are the defending champions - (AFP via Getty Images)

The Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on Sunday 21 December, with the final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat to be played on Sunday 18 January - far earlier than when held at this time of the calendar than in previous years.

The 35th edition of the biennial tournament was initially set to be played in July and August 2025, in order to reduce disruption with the European football season.

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