AFCON 2025 – Virtual studio and XR devices for 2M

Two broadcasts, one challenge: designing, deploying, and operating robust XR and virtual systems at the heart of a major sporting event


Two formats, two challenges

For the 2025 AFCON (the African Cup of Nations, the continent’s biggest national football competition), Moroccan channel 2M TV wanted to offer two programs in different formats, broadcast throughout the competition, each with its own technical and narrative requirements.

On the one hand, the program “Replay,” recorded in a 100% virtual green screen studio, was designed to bring viewers back to the key moments of the competition through match analysis by the channel’s consultants, enhanced with augmented reality and reports.

On the other hand, the program “Planète Foot,” filmed live and in front of an audience on a larger set with numerous guests, relied on XR and augmented reality technologies, with high demands for continuity on air.

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The role of the Aski-da group

Aski-da Creative was called upon at the outset of the project, playing a key role in its successful execution. As project leaders, we were involved in:

  • Advising on the production of the Replay program
  • Creating 3D sets
  • Creating visual and audio graphics and integrating them
  • Creating the opening credits for both programs
  • Operating during the competition
  • Training the 2M TV teams on site
  • Overall project management

Our approach drew on the combined expertise of the Aski-da group and a combination of technology partners and contributors, ensuring consistency across the board and compliance with editorial and technical requirements within the given timeframe.

The solution

The system deployed at 2M TV’s premises was based on two complementary sets:

The “Replay” virtual studio: a fully virtual studio designed for decoding and analysis, based on Zero Density technology and using Ross Video analytical tools.

The main XR set “Planète Foot”: a larger-scale set, combining XR and augmented reality set extensions. The Aski-da teams were involved in XR integration and on-site operation, in coordination with the production teams.

The project was developed in partnership with Videlio, responsible for supplying the technical equipment,  with director Nicolas Clerno to oversee the design and production of the “Replay” program, and with Yves Giraud in charge of the music.

Beyond design and technical integration, the project required significant coordination between the various stakeholders at all stages of production. Aski-da supported the transition between the design and broadcast phases by preparing the equipment in Paris, conducting real-world tests, and maintaining a continuous on-site presence. This approach ensured smooth broadcasting, allowed for necessary adjustments, and facilitated the adoption of XR and virtual systems by the 2M teams, even under the pressure of a major event.

Results

« For an event as strategic as the 2025 AFCON, Aski-da Creative’s support was crucial. Their expertise and mastery of XR and virtual environments enabled 2M TV to offer innovative and perfectly executed solutions. An exemplary collaboration. » – Salim Cheikh, Managing Director – 2M

The system enabled 2M to deploy two complementary, consistent, and effective formats throughout the 2025 AFCON. This joint effort on both programs ensured smooth on-air broadcasting, secure live operation, and knowledge transfer to the channel’s teams.

Beyond the visible results on screen, this project demonstrated Aski-da’s ability to coordinate complex projects and act as a global partner, from design to operation, in support of the editorial and operational challenges of a major international sporting event.