How To Watch the Africa Cup of Nations in the US

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), one of FIFA’s six continental championships, will showcase the top national teams from across Africa in a month-long tournament that draws global attention. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) grants global broadcast rights to selected partners, and for the 2025 edition, beIN Media Group continues to hold the primary international distribution rights through its multi-year deal with CAF, originally signed in 2017 and extended to cover subsequent tournaments.

In the United States, beIN Sports retains the exclusive English-language broadcast rights for AFCON 2025. The network is expected to air matches across its primary cable channel and its digital streaming platform, beIN Sports CONNECT. Coverage typically includes live match broadcasts, pre- and post-match analysis, and highlight packages. For viewers who prefer Spanish-language commentary, previous editions of AFCON have not featured a dedicated Spanish-language broadcaster in the US, and as of now, no official announcements have been made confirming a change for the 2025 tournament.

Planning to follow your favorite African national team or curious to explore the flair of elite African footballers? Read on for a detailed guide on streaming options, match schedules, compatible devices, and subscription packages tailored for US-based fans.

Flexible Streaming: Where to Watch AFCON 2025 Online in the US

Top Streaming Platforms Carrying AFCON 2025

Fans in the United States will have multiple streaming options to follow the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations matches live. These platforms offer official broadcasts in high definition, along with the flexibility to watch from practically anywhere.

• beIN Sports Connect: As the official broadcaster, beIN Sports will stream all tournament matches through its dedicated platform. Subscribers can access live streams, match replays, and studio analysis.
• FuboTV: This sports-centric streaming service includes beIN Sports in its channel lineup. FuboTV allows users to stream on devices ranging from smart TVs to smartphones, and it also offers cloud DVR functionality for recording games.
• Sling TV: With the “World Sports” package, Sling TV includes beIN Sports. It’s a lower-cost option with broad device compatibility, including Roku, Fire TV, and Android/iOS apps.
• Fanatiz: Tailored for soccer fans, Fanatiz carries beIN Sports content, making it another reliable platform for AFCON 2025. Subscriptions are designed specifically for international football enthusiasts.

International Platforms Accessible from the US

Some global services provide access to AFCON matches and are available to U.S.-based viewers. For example, beIN Sports is also accessible through its international app, which works in the U.S. as long as the proper regional subscription is selected. Additionally, platforms like YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV may partner with official rights holders, depending on carriage agreements closer to the tournament dates.

Cross-Device Streaming Flexibility

Streaming services allow fans to stay connected to the tournament across multiple formats. Whether casting live matches from a phone to a big screen, watching updates on a tablet during commutes, or using a laptop for detailed match stats, the experience remains consistent and seamless.

Most platforms mentioned support:

• iOS and Android smartphones and tablets
• Web browsers on desktops and laptops
• Streaming devices like Roku, Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, and Chromecast
• Smart TVs with integrated apps

Because of this multi-platform compatibility, viewers can freely switch between devices—starting a match on a laptop and finishing it on a tablet without losing any action.

Where to Watch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on US TV

Confirmed US TV Broadcasters Covering AFCON 2025

In the United States, beIN Sports retains the English and Spanish-language broadcasting rights for the Africa Cup of Nations. Every match of the 2025 tournament will air live across its linear TV networks. beIN SPORTS and beIN SPORTS en Español provide nationwide coverage through major cable and satellite providers, including Comcast Xfinity, DirecTV, Dish Network, and Spectrum.

Fans looking for HD broadcasts can access matches via beIN SPORTS HD, which includes both live coverage and post-match analysis. For Spanish-language viewers, beIN SPORTS en Español offers complete match commentary tailored specifically to the Hispanic audience in the US.

Regional and Local Sports Channel Coverage

At this stage, no regional or local sports networks have announced AFCON 2025 broadcast agreements. In previous years, coverage outside of beIN Sports' network has been minimal, and no sublicensing of matches has occurred within local markets. Should any regional channel plan to air specific fixtures, updates will appear on the tournament's official platforms and the channels’ own listings.

Accessing the Official TV Broadcast Schedule

Once the complete matchday details are confirmed with kickoff times and group allocations, the official TV broadcast schedule will be published on:

• beIN Sports TV guide
• Confederation of African Football (CAF) official website

These platforms update listings daily, including match replays, multi-language coverage options, halftime shows, and matchday wrap-ups.

Match Schedule and US Time Zone Conversions for AFCON 2025

When the Tournament Kicks Off

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to take place from January to February 2025, with Morocco as the host nation. While the exact match calendar has not been finalized, group stage fixtures, knockout rounds, and the final will unfold over approximately four weeks.

Understanding Morocco’s Local Time vs. US Time Zones

Matches will follow Western European Time (WET), which is the standard time zone in Morocco during January and February. WET is aligned with Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+0).

This time alignment results in the following differences across US time zones:

• Eastern Standard Time (EST): WET +5 hours
• Central Standard Time (CST): WET +6 hours
• Mountain Standard Time (MST): WET +7 hours
• Pacific Standard Time (PST): WET +8 hours

What This Means for US-Based Viewers

Most group stage matches are expected to kick off in the afternoon and evening Moroccan time—typically at 2 PM, 5 PM, and 8 PM WET. Here’s how those local start times translate across the major US time zones:

• 2 PM WET = 9 AM EST / 8 AM CST / 7 AM MST / 6 AM PST
• 5 PM WET = 12 PM (noon) EST / 11 AM CST / 10 AM MST / 9 AM PST
• 8 PM WET = 3 PM EST / 2 PM CST / 1 PM MST / 12 PM PST

Sample Matchday Schedule (US Time)

Using the above conversions, a typical day during the group stage may look like this for US viewers:

• 6:00 AM PST / 9:00 AM EST – Match 1 of the day
• 9:00 AM PST / 12:00 PM EST – Match 2 of the day
• 12:00 PM PST / 3:00 PM EST – Match 3 of the day (prime-time appearance in Morocco)

Weekend fixtures may draw more eyeballs due to favorable midday kicks in the US, aligning well with breakfast on the West Coast and lunch on the East Coast.

Subscription Requirements and Costs: What You'll Pay to Watch AFCON 2025

Paid Streaming Services Broadcasting AFCON 2025

To watch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in the US, several streaming platforms offer live coverage — but access depends on a paid subscription. The main platforms carrying the tournament are FuboTV and Sling TV, with potential coverage through beIN SPORTS Connect, depending on broadcasting licensing updates.

FuboTV Subscription Tiers

• Pro Plan: $79.99/month — includes 180+ channels with live sports, 1,000 hours of cloud DVR, and access to beIN SPORTS networks.
• Elite Plan: $89.99/month — offers 260+ channels with 4K content and additional sports programming.
• Premier Plan: $99.99/month — includes Showtime and expanded on-demand content alongside live matches.

All FuboTV plans carry beIN SPORTS, which is likely to hold US broadcast rights for AFCON 2025, based on past tournaments. Each plan offers both live match streaming and on-demand match replays, along with features like pause and rewind during live games. FuboTV also includes a 7-day free trial for new users.

Sling TV Packages

• Sling Blue: $40/month — focuses on news and entertainment but does not carry beIN SPORTS by default.
• Sling Orange: $40/month — offers fewer channels but tailored toward sports fans via ESPN networks.
• Sports Extra Add-on: $11/month — includes beIN SPORTS, necessary for AFCON coverage if confirmed.

To watch AFCON 2025 via Sling, subscribers will need a base plan and the Sports Extra add-on, bringing the total to at least $51/month. Sling offers customizable packages but does not include a free trial for all users. However, promotional rates like 50% off the first month often appear around major tournaments.

beIN SPORTS Connect

For those who prefer direct access, beIN SPORTS Connect provides a standalone streaming service for its channels. The subscription costs $19.99/month and includes both live broadcasts and full-match replays. This is a straightforward option for users only interested in the tournament without additional TV content.

Trial Periods and Deals

• FuboTV: 7-day free trial for first-time subscribers.
• Sling TV: No free trial consistently available, but frequent promotions offer first-month discounts.
• beIN SPORTS Connect: No free trial, but access is month-to-month with no contracts.

Looking to try before committing? FuboTV gives the most flexibility with its trial, while Sling leans on lower entry pricing to draw in new users. Season-long viewers may find beIN SPORTS Connect the most cost-efficient option if AFCON is the sole focus.

Free Ways to Catch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in the US

Free Trials from Live TV Streaming Services

Several over-the-top (OTT) streaming platforms in the US offer free trials that can be used to watch the Africa Cup of Nations without a paid subscription—at least temporarily. FuboTV, which regularly includes international sports channels such as beIN SPORTS and FOX Soccer Plus in its lineup, has historically offered a 7-day free trial. YouTube TV also provides a 7-day trial and frequently partners with sports networks offering add-on packages.

To take advantage of these, new users can time their trials around key matchdays, particularly the group stage’s opening fixtures or a favorite nation's scheduled match. However, once the trial period expires, continuation of access requires a paid subscription.

Free Match Highlights and Digital Content

For viewers seeking highlights rather than full-match coverage, several digital platforms provide on-demand content without requiring payment or account setup. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) maintains an active digital presence, typically uploading official highlights on:

• YouTube – Official match recaps, goals, and post-match interviews
• Facebook and Twitter/X – Short clips, moment-by-moment updates, and player spotlights
• CAFOnline.com – On-demand highlight packages and press conference footage

Highlights are usually available within a few hours after matches conclude, but full games are rarely accessible unless through licensed broadcasters. Group-stage matches may also see limited simulcasts through third-party platforms, though these are subject to regional rights agreements.

Timing Constraints on Free Access

While free viewing options exist, many come with inherent time limitations or delayed access. Free trials are one-time use per account, and resubscribing typically requires new credentials and payment methods. Highlight videos uploaded to social platforms often premiere well after the final whistle, which doesn't suit live-viewing fans.

For real-time match streaming without delay, paid services remain the primary route. That said, casual fans or those focused on specific matches can still follow much of the action through legally available, no-cost content—just not always live or uninterrupted.

Watch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on the Go or at Home: Mobile & Smart TV Options

iOS and Android Streaming Apps

To follow the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on your smartphone or tablet, install streaming apps that support the official broadcasters. The beIN Sports app delivers live match coverage, replays, and real-time stats for both iOS and Android users. The interface supports smooth playback even on low bandwidth, and you can set notifications for kickoff times to match your schedule.

Prefer an aggregator platform? The Sling TV app offers access to beIN Sports through its add-on packages on both iPhone and Android devices. This app supports multitasking features like picture-in-picture on compatible devices, letting you track scores while browsing or messaging.

Smart TV Streaming Platforms

Big-screen viewing enhances the tournament atmosphere, and several platforms let you stream AFCON 2025 in high fidelity. Compatible devices include:

• Apple TV: Download the beIN Sports Connect or Sling TV app directly from the App Store. Seamless integration with tvOS allows rapid switching between matches and access to match highlights.
• Android TV: Supported by both beIN Sports and Sling TV apps, Android TV enables voice search and personalized recommendations tailored to football content.
• Roku: Add the Sling TV channel to your Roku device and sign in to access live AFCON streams. Roku’s interface prioritizes speed and ease of use for switching channels.
• Amazon Fire TV: Install the Sling TV or beIN Sports apps from the Amazon Appstore. Fire TV’s Alexa functionality can navigate to live games with simple commands like “Watch AFCON live.”
• Samsung Smart TV: On newer models, find the beIN Sports Xtra app in the Smart Hub. Sling TV is also available across most Samsung televisions manufactured after 2017.

High-Definition and 4K Streaming Options

Where supported by the platform and the broadcaster, viewers can experience matches in HD or Ultra HD (4K). beIN Sports broadcasts selected fixtures in 1080p resolution, with 4K delivery available on certain devices through Sling TV’s sports add-ons. On supported Smart TVs, this enhances clarity and detail, particularly for wide-angle views and replay footage.

Network speed and device compatibility determine streaming quality. A stable connection of at least 25 Mbps will sustain 4K streaming without buffering across most devices.

Accessing International Streams with a VPN

Unlocking Geo-Restricted Coverage

Many national broadcasters across Africa will hold exclusive rights to stream the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, but their platforms often geo-block content for users outside their home countries. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) provide a workaround. By routing internet traffic through servers in the broadcaster’s country, a VPN assigns users a local IP address—bypassing regional restrictions. This method allows viewers in the US to tap into official broadcasts not otherwise available via American networks or streamers.

Where International Streams Are Available

Several African broadcasters are confirmed or expected rights-holders for AFCON 2025. These include:

• Canal+ Afrique – Offers French-language coverage across Francophone Africa, widely followed in Cameroon and Ivory Coast.
• SuperSport – A dominant player in Southern and Eastern Africa, including the likes of South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. SuperSport streams via DStv platforms.
• ERTU or ON Time Sports (Egypt) – Known for Arabic-language broadcasts and potential match coverage for key games involving the Egyptian national team.

These services typically align their programming with local audiences, providing regionally tailored commentary and analysis that isn’t accessible through US-based platforms. For viewers seeking that local flavor—or to follow key matches not shown stateside—a VPN opens that window.

Trusted VPN Providers for Stable Streaming

VPN performance varies significantly, especially when streaming live sports. High-definition video demands low latency and consistent speed. For best results, long-standing VPN services with optimized servers should be prioritized. Top-performing options include:

• NordVPN – Known for its expansive server network and fast connection speeds, making it one of the most consistent choices for sports streaming.
• ExpressVPN – Offers reliable access to foreign content libraries and maintains high-speed servers in Africa, Europe, and North America.
• Surfshark – A budget-friendly choice that allows unlimited device connections and maintains effective bypass systems for geo-blocked content.

Using any of these VPNs, fans in the US can connect to a South African server to access SuperSport’s coverage or switch to French servers to stream Canal+ Afrique. The process takes minutes to set up, but the payoff is direct access to broadcasts designed for the home crowd.

Ethical Considerations When Using VPNs

Accessing foreign streams via VPN should align with fair-use policies and the terms of service of both the VPN provider and the broadcaster. Subscribing to official streaming packages offered by Canal+ or SuperSport while using a VPN ensures both compliance and support for content creators and rights-holders.

Where to Watch Highlights and On-Demand Content from AFCON 2025 in the US

Missed the live action? Catch up swiftly and thoroughly with multiple platforms offering replays, key highlights, and tactical post-match breakdowns of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Official CAF Digital Channels

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) YouTube channel remains a primary source for free highlights. Expect professionally edited clips featuring goal recaps, major saves, and match-defining moments. CAF typically uploads these videos within hours following the final whistle, making them available globally without geo-restrictions.

• Full-match replays of selected games are also uploaded—generally within 24 hours after they air live.
• Condensed versions (5–10 minutes) focusing on pivotal moments go up the same day, often in multiple languages.
• Analytical pieces and interviews with coaches and players complement the coverage in the days following the match.

beIN Sports On-Demand Access

If you've subscribed through beIN Sports Connect or your cable provider offers it, you’ll unlock a richer archive. The on-demand library includes full-match replays, 2-minute highlight clips, and extended format recaps ranging from 30 to 60 minutes. These assets usually appear in the app and on the site within 1–2 hours after each game ends.

The beIN Sports Xtra streaming channel may also rerun selected matches during lighter programming windows, especially during non-peak hours—late evenings or around mid-morning ET the next day.

Other Distribution Avenues

• Sling TV (when bundled with beIN Sports) provides an accessible on-demand section with match reviews and post-game wrap-ups.
• FuboTV’s cloud DVR feature allows users to record matches and watch them later. Highlights might also appear via integrated channels depending on your subscription tier.

Condensed content generally drops faster than full replays. For same-day access, YouTube and beIN’s digital services remain the fastest and most comprehensive options.

Commentary Choices: Language Options When Watching AFCON 2025 in the US

English and Spanish Coverage from US Broadcasters

The majority of US broadcasters offering Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 coverage will deliver commentary in both English and Spanish. Platforms like beIN SPORTS have historically provided dual-language feeds, allowing viewers to choose their preferred audio track directly within the stream or TV broadcast settings. English serves the general sports audience, while Spanish-language commentary caters to a significant demographic and aligns with broader sports coverage trends seen across international football tournaments.

Exploring French-Language Streams for Francophone Nations

For fans supporting French-speaking countries—Ivory Coast, Senegal, Cameroon, Algeria—French-language commentary adds cultural relevance and emotional nuance. While mainstream US networks may not feature French audio, streaming services with access to global feeds often include this option. Channels such as Canal+ Afrique and TV5Monde occasionally hold AFCON international rights and offer French-language coverage to their US subscribers, either live or via partner platforms.

Commentary in Local African Dialects on Global Digital Platforms

Some digital platforms with international reach, particularly FIFA+ and regionally focused YouTube channels, have experimented with offering match commentary in African languages like Swahili, Hausa, and Yoruba. While not always consistent across tournaments, this approach reflects the linguistic diversity of AFCON participants and enriches the viewing experience for diaspora viewers in the US. Fans looking for these options often turn to social media announcements or in-app settings on the day of the match, as availability varies per game and platform.

• English and Spanish: Standard coverage from US broadcasters like beIN SPORTS and potential ESPN partners.
• French: Available through international channels with US distribution such as Canal+ or TV5Monde.
• Local dialects: Occasionally streamed via FIFA+ or team-affiliated YouTube channels, often announced via official social media prior to matches.

Want to feel closer to the game? Try switching commentary mid-match and compare how the tone, insights, and cultural references shift. The language you choose can change how you experience the tournament.