AFCON Organisers Launch "Free Entry" Strategy to Fill Stands

In a bold move to bolster stadium atmosphere, AFCON 2025 organisers in Morocco have begun allowing fans into stadiums for free shortly after kick-off. A Confederation of African Football (CAF) source confirmed that for matches with sparse attendance, gates are being opened roughly 20 minutes into the game to welcome waiting supporters without charge.

The strategy was on full display during Wednesday’s Group F clash between Cameroon and Gabon in Agadir. Despite starting in front of near-deserted stands amid relentless rain, the venue swelled to an official attendance of 35,200 by the final whistle—a significant jump for the 45,000-capacity arena.

Similar "late surges" have been noted across the opening fixtures, sometimes leading to drastic revisions in official crowd figures as spectators flood in. For Morocco, ensuring packed stadiums is not merely about optics; it is a critical audition for their joint hosting of the 2030 World Cup alongside Spain and Portugal.

While high-profile clashes involving the hosts and Algeria remain strictly sell-outs, many other group games continue to offer seats starting at 100 dirhams ($10.96). This "AFCON of the People" approach aims to ensure that the continent’s premier football showcase maintains its characteristic vibrance, even for less-heralded matchups.