The Confédération Africaine de Football (CAF) and global sports brand PUMA have officially revealed ‘ITRI’, the designated match ball for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025.

This unveiling marks a celebration of Moroccan heritage blended with the dynamic energy of African football, just weeks ahead of the tournament’s kickoff on December 21, 2025.

Design and Cultural Inspiration
ITRI draws its aesthetic from Morocco’s ancient zellij art—a traditional form of intricate geometric mosaics found in historic architecture.
The ball features a white base accented by vibrant red and green patterns, echoing the colors of the Moroccan flag.

Key design elements include:

• Star geometry at the center, symbolizing ambition, light, and the pursuit of excellence on Africa’s premier football stage.
• Floral petal outlines representing celebration, growth, and the joyful spirit of the AFCON.
• Circular symmetry, embodying the unity of the 24 competing nations.

These motifs are enhanced by ‘Flow of Movement’ patterns that capture the rhythmic, expressive style of African play. The name ‘ITRI’ itself honors the five-pointed star on the Moroccan flag while nodding to the starry configurations in zellij craftsmanship.

Technical Performance
Engineered on PUMA’s Orbita 6 platform, ITRI combines artisanal aesthetics with elite-level functionality. It ensures optimal aerodynamics, grip, and durability for high-stakes matches, making its debut in the tournament’s opening fixture.

Fans can purchase the ITRI ball in select markets for a recommended retail price of €130.

CAF’s Creative Development Manager, Mohamed Ghonemi, emphasized the ball’s unifying power: “Created for the rhythm of African football, the AFCON 2025 ball brings together art, motion, and a design shaped by African spirit and Moroccan craftsmanship. It’s been a privilege to collaborate with PUMA on something that unites every nation at the tournament through a shared sense of connection.”

PUMA’s Director of EEMEA Distribution, Peter Dangl, added: “We’re proud to unveil the ITRI ball – the official match ball of AFCON 2025 and a true symbol of African football’s spirit. Combining Moroccan artistry with advanced performance technology, ITRI celebrates both the host nation’s heritage and the unity of the continent. Our collaboration with CAF reflects PUMA’s lasting commitment to African football and the communities that bring it to life.”

This launch underscores PUMA’s ongoing role as CAF’s official match ball supplier, building excitement for what promises to be a landmark edition of the AFCON in Morocco. For more visuals and updates, check official CAF channels or PUMA’s football collections.

• 61′ – GOAL! Liverpool 1-0 Real Madrid: Mac Allister rose highest to meet a pinpoint Dominik Szoboszlai free-kick delivery, nodding past Thibaut Courtois into the far corner. It was his second goal against Madrid in as many seasons, evoking memories of last November’s 2-0 triumph.

  Anfield erupted, with the Kop’s roar amplifying the tension.

• Early Exchanges (0′-30′): Liverpool started brightly, with Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike probing Madrid’s defense. Real Madrid, under Xabi Alonso, controlled possession (around 58%) but struggled to create clear chances, relying on Jude Bellingham’s industry and Vinícius Júnior’s bursts.
• Courtois’ Heroics (45′-60′): The Belgian goalkeeper, a nightmare from the 2022 final, produced eight saves, including a stunning leg denial on Szoboszlai from point-blank range. His performance kept Madrid in the hunt until Mac Allister’s breakthrough.
• Late Drama (75′-90+’): Bellingham, reaching 50 Champions League appearances at just 22, was denied by Giorgi Mamardashvili’s feet after a rare Madrid counter. A half-hearted penalty appeal for Andy Robertson’s challenge on Arda Güler came to nothing, as Liverpool saw out the win with composed defending led by Virgil van Dijk.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially announced plans to organize a testimonial match honoring legendary Ghanaian striker and former Black Stars captain Asamoah Gyan, celebrating his illustrious career and profound impact on Ghanaian football.

The event, developed in collaboration with Gyan himself, aims to pay tribute to his achievements as Ghana’s all-time top scorer and one of Africa’s football icons. Details such as the date, venue, and participating teams or guest stars are forthcoming, but the GFA emphasized it will be a “grand” and “memorable” occasion.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

• Purpose and Significance: The testimonial serves as a fitting farewell to “Baby Jet,” recognizing his leadership, dazzling performances, and charisma that inspired millions. GFA President Kurt Okraku described Gyan as a “national treasure” whose legacy transcends the pitch, noting the event’s role in etching his contributions into Ghana’s football folklore.
• Gyan’s International Legacy: With 51 goals in 109 caps for the Black Stars, Gyan holds Ghana’s scoring record and is Africa’s most prolific World Cup goalscorer (six goals across 2006, 2010, and 2014 tournaments). He captained Ghana to AFCON finals in 2010 and 2015, and led the team to its first World Cup quarterfinal in 2010.
• Club Career Overview: Gyan’s professional journey began at Liberty Professionals in Ghana before stints at Udinese (Italy), Modena (loan), Rennes (France), Sunderland (England Premier League), Al Ain and Al Ahli (UAE), Shanghai SIPG (China), Kayserispor (Turkey), and ending at Legon Cities FC in 2023.

The announcement has sparked widespread praise, with football analyst Ntow Gyan calling it “overdue” for a player who redefined Ghana’s global identity. However, it has also ignited debate about precedents—why not similar honors for peers like Stephen Appiah, Michael Essien, or Sulley Muntari? Supporters argue Gyan’s unique records and longevity justify the distinction, while critics see it as selective. Social media buzz highlights iconic moments, like his stunning 2010 goal in Sunderland’s 3-0 upset over Chelsea.

This testimonial underscores the GFA’s efforts to celebrate living legends, potentially paving the way for more such events in Ghanaian football. Fans eagerly await further updates, with expectations of a star-studded affair reuniting Black Stars alumni.