Mara’CAN 2025: Guinea-Bissau gears up to host Africa’s Maracana festival

Guinea-Bissau is set to welcome the 11th edition of the Maracana Africa Cup of Nations, Mara’CAN 2025, from September 29 to October 7.

Under the auspices of the International Federation of Maracana Associations (FIMAA), the tournament promises a week of high-level competition, celebration, and cultural exchange.

The event will see the country come alive with the rhythms and excitement of Maracana, a sport renowned for fostering fraternity, conviviality, and friendship across Africa.

Fans and athletes alike are preparing for an action-packed week that will showcase the continent’s finest talent in both the men’s and women’s competitions.

In the men’s tournament, eleven nations have secured qualification: Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Togo, Mali, Senegal, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Niger, and Guinea.

These teams are expected to compete fiercely, bringing skill, strategy, and passion to the pitch. The presence of regional powerhouses such as Senegal and Cameroon ensures that spectators can anticipate a high standard of play and memorable matches throughout the week.

The women’s tournament features six qualified nations: Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Benin, Cameroon, Togo, and Burkina Faso. The inclusion of female teams highlights the growing prominence of women’s Maracana across the continent, providing a platform for female athletes to showcase their talent while promoting gender equality in sport.

Fans can expect competitive fixtures and moments of brilliance from Africa’s top women players, complementing the men’s tournament and enriching the overall festival atmosphere.

Preparations in Guinea-Bissau are well underway, with the host nation focusing on ensuring the event runs smoothly both on and off the pitch. Organizers are working to provide world-class facilities for players and fans, alongside cultural events and community engagement initiatives.

The tournament is expected to attract supporters from across Africa, turning Guinea-Bissau into the epicenter of Maracana for the duration of the competition.

Mara’CAN 2025 is more than just a sporting event; it is a celebration of African culture, community, and sporting spirit. The combination of competitive matches, fan engagement, and cultural festivities ensures that the tournament will leave a lasting impact on both participants and spectators.

It offers a unique opportunity for countries to not only compete at the highest level but also to strengthen ties through sport and shared experiences.

The official draw is eagerly awaited, as fans and analysts anticipate the matchups and potential rivalries that could define the week-long tournament. Guinea-Bissau’s role as host nation is expected to boost local interest in Maracana and inspire the next generation of athletes, while also positioning the country as a key hub for continental sport.

With a blend of thrilling competition, cultural celebration, and international camaraderie, Mara’CAN 2025 promises to be an unforgettable event. Guinea-Bissau is poised to welcome the continent with open arms, offering both players and fans a festival of sport, friendship, and African unity.