AFCON 2025: Free entry boosts stadium atmosphere as fans pour in after kickoff

In a bold move to tackle sparse crowds, the AFCON 2025 organizing committee has introduced a new policy allowing supporters to enter stadiums for free roughly 20 minutes after kickoff in matches where the stands are not filled.

The ideas, aimed at bringing more life to games with low attendance, has already been put into practice several times since the tournament began.

Early examples include group matches where initial spectator numbers were modest, but the scenes inside the arenas changed dramatically once gates opened without charge, with thousands of fans joining in after play had started.

Organizers and the Confederation of African Football (CAF) hope the measure will not only fill empty seats but also enhance the overall atmosphere, making matches more vibrant and engaging for players and viewers alike.

While not all fixtures qualify, sell-out games still require tickets, the initiative has quickly become one of the most talked-about features of this year’s tournament, reflecting a fan-centric approach to Africa’s premier football showcase.

So far, the games have produced exciting performances and unforgettable moments.