AFCON 2025 Favorites: In-Depth Analysis and Predictions

The (Africa Cup of Nations) AFCON 2025 will be hosted in Morocco, a country that has already proven itself capable of organizing world-class sporting events. Following the Atlas Lions’ historic run at the 2022 World Cup, expectations are sky-high for this edition.

But the ultimate question remains: which teams are the true favorites to lift the trophy?

In this article, we’ll focus on four of the strongest contenders: Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Ivory Coast.

What Makes a True Favorite in AFCON?

Being a favorite in AFCON is not just about reputation. It depends on:

• Squad depth – quality and balance across all positions.
• Recent form – qualification results and friendlies.
• Tournament experience – track record in knockout stages.
• Tactical flexibility and coaching – the ability to adapt under pressure.
• Fan factor – national support and home advantage.

Morocco: Host Nation and Serious Contender

Strengths of the Atlas Lions

• A golden generation: Achraf Hakimi, Hakim Ziyech, Sofyan Amrabat, Youssef En-Nesyri.
• A historic World Cup 2022 campaign (first African semi-finalist).
• Modern infrastructure and state-of-the-art facilities.
• Passionate home support that could push them beyond their limits.

Challenges for Morocco

• Immense pressure as hosts.
• High expectations since their last AFCON title dates back to 1976.
• European-based players may suffer from fatigue.

👉 Morocco looks like the logical favorite, but will need to balance pressure with performance.

Senegal: Defending Champions and Natural Favorite

Strengths of the Lions of Teranga

• A complete squad: Édouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, Sadio Mané.
• Strong defensive organization and tactical discipline.
• Stability with coach Aliou Cissé, in charge since 2015.
• Confidence boosted by winning AFCON 2021.

Weaknesses to Watch

• Heavy reliance on Sadio Mané for attacking inspiration.
• Fatigue from Europe-based stars.
• The burden of being “the team to beat.”

👉 Senegal has everything to defend its crown, but cannot afford mistakes against underdogs.

Egypt: The Pharaohs’ Unmatched Legacy

Strengths of Egypt

• Mohamed Salah, a global superstar and key leader.
• A record 7 AFCON titles – unmatched experience.
• Solid defensive structure and strong mentality in knockout games.

Limitations and Concerns

• Overdependence on Salah’s brilliance.
• A sometimes overly defensive style that limits creativity.

👉 Egypt may not be as dominant as in the past, but their tournament DNA makes them a constant threat.

Ivory Coast: Tradition Meets a New Golden Era

Strengths of the Elephants

• A talented squad with Sébastien Haller, Franck Kessié, and Nicolas Pépé.
• Strong footballing culture with 2 AFCON titles.
• A mix of experienced leaders and rising stars.

Weaknesses of the Ivorian Squad

• Inconsistent performances in recent tournaments.
• A defense that struggles against fast, technical teams.

👉 Ivory Coast remains unpredictable – capable of brilliance or disappointment.

Comparing the 4 AFCON Favorites

Team	Main Strength	Main Weakness	AFCON Titles
Morocco	Home advantage + golden generation	Host pressure	1
Senegal	Balanced squad, strong defense	Reliance on Mané	1
Egypt	Experience + Salah	Defensive style	7
Ivory Coast	Powerful attack	Defensive gaps	2

Extra-Sport Factors That Could Shape the Tournament

• Weather conditions in Morocco during summer.
• Logistics and travel between host cities.
• National pride and motivation as driving forces.
• Injuries before or during the tournament.

Realistic Predictions for AFCON 2025

1. Morocco – the favorite thanks to home advantage and squad quality.
2. Senegal – experienced champions with a complete team.
3. Egypt – dangerous in knockout stages despite limitations.
4. Ivory Coast – potential surprise package if consistent.

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FAQs on AFCON 2025

1. Where will AFCON 2025 take place?

In Morocco, across cities like Rabat, Casablanca, Tangier, and Marrakech.

2. Who are the defending champions?

Senegal, winners of AFCON 2021 in Cameroon.

3. Which country has won AFCON the most times?

Egypt, with 7 trophies.

4. Why is Morocco considered a favorite?

As hosts with a talented squad and strong momentum since the 2022 World Cup, they have a unique edge.

5. Who are the key players to watch?

Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Sadio Mané (Senegal), Mohamed Salah (Egypt), Sébastien Haller (Ivory Coast).

6. When will AFCON 2025 be held?

Summer 2025 – official dates to be confirmed by CAF.

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Conclusion: A Historic Edition Ahead

AFCON 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting tournaments in African football history. Morocco’s home advantage, Senegal’s consistency, Egypt’s legendary experience, and Ivory Coast’s unpredictability guarantee a spectacle of passion, drama, and football at its finest.

No matter who lifts the trophy, this edition will be remembered as a celebration of African football’s talent and spirit.