AFCON 2025: Top Five Title Contenders
Africa’s biggest football prize is up for grabs as 24 teams battle for glory at the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. The tournament begins on December 21 and promises drama, shocks and excitement, as always.
With seven different winners since 2010, picking a clear favourite is not easy. Teams from North and West Africa look strongest, but surprises are never ruled out. Here is my ranking of the main contenders, with Nigeria placed fourth.
5. Algeria
Algeria won the title in 2019 but have struggled in recent tournaments. They were knocked out early in the last two editions and their form has been inconsistent. Still, they remain dangerous.
Captain Riyad Mahrez brings experience and creativity, while Mohamed Amoura is their main goal threat. The squad has quality, but questions remain over consistency and defence. Algeria could go far, but an early exit is also possible.
4. Nigeria
Nigeria arrive with one of the most exciting attacks in the competition and huge support from their fans. Players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze give the Super Eagles real firepower.
Osimhen and Lookman can decide games on their own, and the midfield offers good balance. However, concerns remain in defence and goalkeeping, which could hurt them against stronger teams.
Missing out on World Cup qualification was a setback, but AFCON offers Nigeria a chance to respond. They have the quality to challenge, but must stay solid at the back.
3. Egypt
Egypt will once again look to Mohamed Salah to lead them. The seven-time champions have come close in recent years and are desperate to lift the trophy for the first time since 2010.
Many of their players play together at club level in Egypt, which gives them strong understanding and teamwork. With Salah’s leadership and experience, Egypt are expected to be strong contenders.
2. Senegal
Senegal remain one of the strongest teams in Africa. Winners in 2021, they boast a squad full of top-level players across Europe and beyond.
With stars like Sadio Mané, Kalidou Koulibaly and Édouard Mendy, plus exciting attackers and a strong midfield, Senegal have balance and power. Their recent form suggests they will be very hard to stop.
1. Morocco
Morocco are the clear favourites, especially playing at home. They have a deep and talented squad, strong defence and plenty of attacking options.
Their confidence is still high after finishing fourth at the 2022 World Cup, and home support could push them even further. With quality in every area of the pitch, Morocco look best placed to lift the trophy.
