Football in Africa is more than just a sport; it’s a way of life that brings people together, creating unforgettable moments of joy, heartbreak, and national pride. The passion for the game runs deep across the continent, from local derbies to international showdowns.
Africa is home to some truly impressive stadiums that have become symbols of history, culture, and national identity. These massive arenas have hosted legendary matches and major global events like the FIFA World Cup, Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), and CAF Champions League finals. Each stadium carries a story, a legacy, and a place in the hearts of millions of football fans.
Here are the 10 biggest football stadiums in Africa:
1) FNB Stadium, South Africa (94,736)
FNB Stadium, also known as Soccer City, is the largest stadium in Africa, with a seating capacity of 94,736. Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, it hosted the 2010 FIFA World Cup final.
2) Misr Stadium, Egypt (93,940)
Misr Stadium, also known as Egypt International Stadium, is one of the largest football arenas in Africa, with a seating capacity of 93,940. Situated in Cairo, Egypt, it has been a major venue for domestic and international matches.
3) Borg El-Arab Stadium, Egypt (86,000)
Borg El-Arab Stadium in Alexandria, Egypt, is the third-largest stadium in Africa, accommodating 86,000 spectators. It has hosted major events like Egyptian Premier League matches and AFCON qualifiers.
4) Stade des Martyrs, DR Congo (80,000)
Located in Kinshasa, DR Congo, Stade des Martyrs is a historic multi-purpose stadium with a capacity of 80,000 seats. It has hosted CAF Champions League matches and World Cup qualifiers.
5) Cairo International Stadium, Egypt (75,000)
Cairo International Stadium, with a capacity of 75,000, is one of Africa’s most historic venues located in Nasr City, Cairo. It has hosted several AFCON tournaments and Egyptian Premier League matches.
6) Ibn Batouta Stadium, Morocco (65,000)
Ibn Batouta Stadium in Tangier, Morocco, has a seating capacity of 65,000 and has hosted events like the CAF Super Cup and AFCON matches.
7) Stade du 5 Juillet, Algeria (64,000)
Stade du 5 Juillet 1962 in Algiers, Algeria, has a 64,000-seat capacity and has hosted major tournaments like the AFCON and FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
8) Ellis Park Stadium, South Africa (62,567)
Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, has a capacity of 62,567 and has hosted FIFA World Cup matches.
9) Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Nigeria (60,491)
Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja, Nigeria, has a capacity of 60,491 and has hosted AFCON finals and World Cup qualifiers.
10) Alassane Ouattara Stadium, Ivory Coast (60,000)
Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, with a capacity of 60,000, was opened in 2020 for AFCON 2023.
These stadiums not only serve as venues for football matches but also as cultural landmarks that showcase the deep-rooted love for the game in Africa. Each stadium has its own unique history and significance, contributing to the rich tapestry of football on the continent.
