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The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025), hosted by Morocco, has reignited debate over stadium attendance. In an unprecedented move, fans were granted free entry to the Egypt–Zimbabwe match (2–1) on Monday in Agadir. The following day in Rabat, free tickets were also distributed for the DR Congo–Benin match (1–0) at the Al Madina Stadium.
These initiatives were implemented without prior official announcements. However, they quickly gained traction among young locals and journalists, who reported a noticeable rise in attendance as the matches progressed.
In Rabat, free ticket distribution on Tuesday resulted in a packed stadium by halftime. «At the end of the match, the announcer initially reported an attendance of 6,000 people, but later revised the figure to 13,000 spectators», RMC Sport reported.
The day before, Agadir’s stadium welcomed more than 30,000 spectators by the final whistle of the Egypt–Zimbabwe match, which had begun with a notably sparse crowd.
Embracing the AFCON Spirit Locally
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has set ticket prices ranging from 100 to 900 dirhams, depending on the competition phase. While offering free tickets could help address accessibility issues and boost attendance, such initiatives require careful management to avoid overcrowding.
Mustapha Badri, a veteran sports journalist and director of the weekly Al Mountakhab, explained to Yabiladi that «this practice is not new in local football culture, as stadium gates have often been opened toward the end of matches to allow free access». He nevertheless cautioned that «the approach taken in Agadir requires vigilance to avoid any potential issues».
«Morocco has made significant progress in combating hooliganism and stadium violence. Our police force is doing exemplary work to ensure the smooth running of AFCON 2025. It is essential to preserve this achievement: a festive atmosphere without the intrusion of disruptive elements», he stressed.
Badri also pointed out that even low-priced tickets help identify spectators, improving organization and contributing to efforts to curb black market sales.
He noted that «opening stadium gates for free during a match can be a double-edged sword». While lively stands benefit players and the overall atmosphere, managing large crowds entering at once can pose challenges, particularly when information spreads rapidly and informally.
«There are procedures to follow. Responsibility lies with both organizers and fans. This is how a genuine stadium culture is built, especially during major continental and international competitions», he said.
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Tailoring Initiatives to the Audience
Morocco previously hosted the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, during which free and open stadium access was also implemented. Reflecting on that experience, Badri told Yabiladi that «the context is different, as each competition attracts a different audience».
«Women’s football matches generally draw smaller crowds, even though they are just as important and represent a major development opportunity for the sport in Morocco. They are more often attended by families with children», he explained.
According to Badri, encouraging free access during the Women’s AFCON was «an effective way to promote football as a family-friendly event and to highlight female sporting talent, in a competition where supporters are often relatives and friends of the players».
He concluded that ensuring the smooth running of a tournament like AFCON ultimately depends on rigorous access control and efficient ticket management.
