Rabat – The closing ceremony of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) showcased a vibrant tribute to Morocco’s role as host nation.
British actor and rapper Idris Elba took center stage at the Prince Moulay Abdellah for the opening speech and performance, celebrating the country’s warmth, unity, and hospitality, and cultural richness. The ceremony took place an hour before the game, which will kick off at 8 p.m., Morocco and Senegal in a thrilling finale. Prince Moulay Rachid is attending the final.
Elba opened the ceremony with a presentation putting emphasis on how Morocco had been “the heartbeat” of the tournament, showcasing hospitality across every host city.
Morocco has brought “dignity and brilliance,” as hosts of the best tournament in Africa, Elba said.
He emphasized how we live different lives, we speak different languages, and we live the game differently, but he praised the unity that such sports bring to life.
“Farewell from Morocco, land of light and safety,” he said to roaring fans.
Dancers donning costumes that uniquely captured Morocco’s diverse identity took to the center stage, with colors blending green and red tones inspired by the national flag.
The track featured celebrated African rhythms as well as Amazigh, Oriental, and Moroccan folkloric music.
Zellige and Amazigh motifs also adorned their outfits, while light effects and flame visuals illuminated the stadium’s zellige and geometric patterns, adding dramatic flair.
The dance and music showcased Morocco’s deep cultural roots, with a rich composition blended with rhythms from across the country, mirroring its artistic diversity.
The ceremony also celebrated the soundtrack of the tournament, “Africallez”, featuring Jaylann and Angélique Kidjo, and L’Artist, who paid tribute to Africa’s enduring love for football.
Elba then offered fans a joyful moment with a musical tribute to “Mama Africa,” before declaring, “The time is now for a glorious finale.”
Shortly after, a young child entered the pitch holding a football adorned with African flags, dressed in a white-and-gold outfit featuring a gold map of Africa
As the child raised the ball, drones captured an aerial shot of the AFCON trophy projected onto the pitch, while stadium screens displayed the flags of all African nations.
The ceremony concluded with applause echoing throughout the venue and fans chanting “Dima Maghreb,” closing the tournament with pride and emotion.
