Former Ivory Coast international Salomon Kalou has tipped Nigeria’s Super Eagles as strong favourites to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, citing the team’s depth, balance and attacking firepower.
Nigeria come into the tournament with renewed belief after finishing runners-up at the last AFCON, where they lost 2–1 to hosts Côte d’Ivoire in a dramatic final. That defeat, many observers believe, has only strengthened the team’s hunger for silverware.
Under the guidance of head coach Éric Chelle, the Super Eagles will be aiming to go one better and claim a fourth continental title. Expectations are high, with the squad boasting a blend of experience and emerging talent across all departments.
Writing in his weekly blog on Tribuna, Kalou singled out Victor Osimhen as a key reason for Nigeria’s title credentials. He described the Napoli striker as one of the most feared forwards in world football and a player capable of deciding games at the highest level.
Kalou also praised the attacking support around Osimhen, highlighting the pace and creativity of Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, as well as Wilfred Ndidi’s composure and defensive discipline in midfield, which he said gives the team crucial balance.
Nigeria remain one of the most successful nations in AFCON history, having won the tournament three times, finished as runners-up on five occasions, and claimed eight bronze medals — a record that underlines their pedigree on the continental stage.
The Super Eagles have been drawn in Group C alongside Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda. They will begin their quest for a fourth AFCON crown against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars next Tuesday, as they look to make a strong opening statement in Morocco.
