Music, light and symbolism set the tone in Rabat as Morocco launch the Africa Cup of Nations in style
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON Morocco 2025) officially kicked off on Sunday evening with a vibrant musical opening ceremony at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat.
The show featured performances by Moroccan-American star French Montana, Nigerian global icon Davido, and acclaimed Moroccan producer RedOne, accompanied by a sophisticated light display that transformed the stadium ahead of the tournament’s opening match, which saw hosts Morocco defeat Comoros 2–0.
In a statement published on its official website, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) described the ceremony as one of the most memorable openings in the history of the competition. CAF highlighted how the production seamlessly blended music, lighting, movement and symbolism, creating a visual spectacle designed for audiences across Africa and around the world.
French Montana, who was born in Morocco and raised in the United States, brought particular resonance to the opening night. His presence symbolised the intersection of African identity and global influence, reflecting Morocco’s role as a cultural bridge between the continent and the wider world. As one of the most prominent artists of African origin in global hip-hop, his appearance carried both artistic and symbolic weight.
Davido, meanwhile, took to the stage as one of the most influential African musicians of the modern era. Widely credited with helping propel Afrobeats onto the world’s biggest stages, his performance captured the celebratory spirit of the tournament and underscored Africa’s growing cultural reach.
Moroccan producer RedOne represented the creative force behind the scenes. His involvement served as a reminder of Africa’s deep and expanding footprint in the global music industry, linking African identity with international audiences through production excellence and sound innovation.
With a bold artistic vision and a clear celebration of African culture, the opening ceremony set an ambitious tone for AFCON 2025—both on and off the pitch.