AFCON 2025: A tournament of favourites emerges
The Africa Cup of Nations in 2025 is shaping up as a landmark edition, with powerhouses and surprise packages alike eyeing glory on Moroccan soil. As the tournament approaches, a handful of teams stand out as favorites thanks to star power, depth, and recent form. The question on many football fans’ lips is simple: who will win AFCON 2025?
Egypt: Mohamed Salah’s continued magnetism and pedigree
Egypt’s hopes in AFCON 2025 are heavily tethered to Mohamed Salah, one of Africa’s greatest players. Salah’s leadership, experience in high-stakes matches, and ability to influence games in moments of magic make Egypt a constant threat. Beyond Salah, the Pharaohs have a slate of domestic and international experience that translates well to the continental stage. For Egypt, AFCON success would not merely be about talent; it would be about cohesion, tactical discipline, and a squad capable of thriving in the event’s pressure cooker atmosphere.
Strengths to watch
- Clinical counter-attacking options and wide play on the flanks.
- Solid organization at the back and set-piece efficiency.
- Experience in big matches, which matters in knockout ties.
Nigeria: Victor Osimhen leading a dynamic attack
Nigeria’s national team remains one of Africa’s most potent attacking outfits, with Victor Osimhen at the spearhead. Osimhen’s blend of pace, power, and finishing prowess elevates Nigeria’s prospects, while a cadre of talented teammates provides depth in every phase of the pitch. If Nigeria can balance defense with the explosive counter-attacks that Osimhen often initiates, they will be among the teams nobody wants to face in a one-off knockout game.
Key factors for success
- Clinical strikers combined with high-intensity pressing.
- Midfield creativity to unlock compact defenses.
- Resilience in difficult fixtures and experience in tournament pressure.
Morocco: Home advantage and a star-studded squad
Morocco enters AFCON 2025 with the luxury of hosting duties, a typically strong defense, and a roster packed with top-tier talent across Europe’s leagues. The Atlas Lions benefit from a familiar home environment, which can lift performances, while their depth in attack and midfield gives coach continuity and tactical flexibility. Morocco’s blend of domestic pride and international experience makes them a perennial threat whenever AFCON rolls around.
What makes Morocco dangerous
- Home crowd support and familiarity with venues across the host cities.
- Depth in midfield and attacking options, allowing multiple game plans.
- Recent success and a culture of winning at continental events.
The potential dark horses and what to watch
Beyond the obvious favorites, nations such as Botswana and Comoros bring fresh energy to the tournament. Botswana’s appearance marks a significant milestone for a country ranked 138th, and their underdog status could sharpen their focus and performance against higher-ranked opponents. Comoros, still early in their AFCON journey, might leverage momentum from recent results and a fearless approach. These teams illustrate how AFCON 2025 could craft an unpredictable narrative, with surprise results potentially altering the trajectory of the title race.
Conclusion: AFCON 2025’s likely champions
While football always holds room for surprises, the contenders with Salah, Osimhen, and Morocco’s squad depth stand out as the most credible favorites for AFCON 2025. The tournament’s format, the home support, and the tactical flexibility of the leading teams will determine who lifts the trophy. Whatever the outcome, AFCON 2025 promises drama, elite talent, and a showcase of Africa’s best on a grand stage.
