Hosts Morocco face giantkillers Comoros in the opening match of the 24-team tournament on December 21st while title-holders Ivory Coast will come up against five-time winners Cameroon.
Sudan, a country ravaged by civil war, drew Algeria, and the clash of Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo is set to be another group-stage highlight. Prolific scorer Salah has won multiple honours with Liverpool, but victory in the AFCON has eluded him.
Apart from South Africa, the record seven-time champions will take on two other countries from the south of the continent, Angola and Zimbabwe, in Group B. Nigeria, runners-up last edition, are blessed with outstanding forwards, including African Footballer of the Year Lookman and his predecessor Victor Osimhen.
Tunisia, making a record 17th consecutive AFCON appearance, and east African contenders Uganda and Tanzania complete Group C. Ivory Coast will also meet Gabon and Mozambique in Group F.