Rabat Museum Celebrates African Football Before AFCON Final

A new museum dedicated to African football opened its doors in Rabat just days before Morocco faces Senegal in the Africa Cup of Nations final, creating a space where sports history meets cultural celebration.

PUMA unveiled the Museum of African Football on Friday night at the Abla Ababou Gallery, hosting an energetic gathering of Moroccan artists, football freestylers, and content creators. The timing couldn't be more perfect as excitement builds across the nation for Sunday's championship match.

The museum offers visitors an immersive journey through African football's rich heritage, showcasing legends, storytellers, and unsung heroes who shaped the sport across the continent. Interactive displays and PUMA product exhibitions allow guests to connect with the game's history in hands-on ways.

Moroccan DJ Ali Balla, who performed throughout the tournament, captured the national mood at the opening. "It's been a beautiful tournament, with the wins the Moroccan team is achieving," he said, praising both the organization and expressing hope for a home victory.

Football freestylers Fatima Zahra Akif and Mehdi Rabeh attended the celebration, sharing their optimism about coach Walid Regragui's upcoming lineup decisions. Content creator Ayoub Logic, visiting from France, said the event connected creators while building anticipation for the final match.

The Ripple Effect

Beyond the museum's cultural impact, AFCON 2025 has become African football's greatest commercial success story. Tournament revenues jumped over 90% compared to previous editions, with sponsors growing from 17 to 23 major brands.

The tournament expanded its reach into previously untapped markets including China, Japan, and Turkey through data-driven strategies. CAF partnered with Konami to launch eAFCON, bringing esports innovation that strengthened the competition's global digital presence.

"The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 is now undoubtedly the most successful commercial story in the history of African football," CAF announced. Long-term partners like PUMA, TotalEnergies, Orange, and Visa joined new sponsors to support the growing tournament.

The museum stands as a permanent reminder that African football continues rising on the world stage, celebrating past achievements while new records fall with each tournament.