AFCON 2025 Predictions: Favourites, Dark Horses and Morocco’s Chances

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 The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 is fast approaching, and discussions around team predictions are intensifying. With a competitive lineup of 24 nations, rising stars and world-class talent, this edition promises one of the most thrilling tournaments in recent years.

In this guide, we break down the groups, analyse the tournament favourites, highlight potential surprises, and assess Morocco’s chances on home soil.

AFCON 2025 Group Stage Breakdown

Group A

  • Morocco
  • Mali
  • Zambia
  • Comoros

Group B

  • Egypt
  • South Africa
  • Angola
  • Zimbabwe

Group C

  • Nigeria
  • Tunisia
  • Uganda
  • Tanzania

Group D

  • Senegal
  • DR Congo
  • Botswana
  • Benin

Group E

  • Algeria
  • Burkina Faso
  • Sudan
  • Equatorial Guinea

Group F

  • Côte d’Ivoire
  • Cameroon
  • Gabon
  • Mozambique

Who Are the Favourites for AFCON 2025?

Based on recent performances, squad depth and international pedigree, several teams enter the tournament as leading contenders:

  • Morocco (hosts) – An elite generation, home support and tactical consistency make the Atlas Lions the top favourite.
  • Senegal – Unbeaten during qualifiers, boasting one of the most balanced squads in Africa.
  • Egypt – A historically dominant AFCON nation, led by Mohamed Salah.
  • Nigeria – Outstanding attacking power and strong squad depth.
  • Algeria – A technically gifted team capable of a deep run.

Dark Horses to Watch

These teams have shown consistency and could create major upsets:

  • Mali – Impressive youth development and physical strength.
  • Tunisia – Tactically disciplined and difficult to break down.
  • South Africa – Momentum gained from progress in recent competitions.

Potential Surprise Teams

Several emerging nations could exceed expectations:

  • Comoros – Unbeaten in qualifiers, dynamic and well-organised.
  • Botswana – Only their second appearance since 2012, capable of surprising bigger teams.

Key Teams Under the Spotlight

🇳🇬 Nigeria

Known for a powerful attacking line featuring Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface, supported by Lookman and Chukwueze. Creative midfielders give them an edge in open play and set pieces.

🇸🇳 Senegal

A balanced squad with strength in every position. Their defensive stability and midfield mastery make them serious contenders.

🇲🇦 Morocco

Host nation advantage, tactical maturity, technical excellence and a generation at its peak. After their historic World Cup 2022 performance, Morocco enters with huge expectations.

How the Teams Qualified

The qualification phase revealed both dominance and surprises. Senegal went unbeaten, Morocco and Egypt impressed with structured play, while Comoros shocked the continent with a strong record. Nigeria’s powerful goal difference underlined their attacking efficiency.

Morocco’s Chances at AFCON 2025

As hosts with world-class talent and exceptional momentum, Morocco is widely considered one of the two biggest favourites alongside Senegal. Their group is manageable, and their tactical structure gives them an advantage in knockout stages.

AFCON 2025 Key Predictions Summary

Favourites

  • Morocco
  • Senegal
  • Egypt
  • Nigeria
  • Algeria

Dark Horses

  • Mali
  • Tunisia
  • South Africa

Surprise Teams

  • Comoros
  • Botswana

FAQ – AFCON 2025 Team Predictions

Who are the favourites for AFCON 2025?

Morocco, Senegal, Egypt and Nigeria are considered leading contenders.

Who are the most promising dark horses?

Mali, Tunisia and South Africa.

Which players should fans watch closely?

Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané and Victor Osimhen are expected to play key roles.

Which group is the toughest?

Group B (Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe) stands out as the most competitive.

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