Former Ivory Coast star Salomon Kalou believes Nigeria have the quality and depth to go all the way and lift the trophy at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, SportPremi reports.
The Super Eagles eye a fourth continental crown when the 2025 edition kickstarts in Morocco on the 21st of this month, after near-misses in recent years.
The three-time African champions reached the last four in 2019, but suffered defeat to Algeria in the semifinal, before eventually defeating Tunisia to claim bronze medal.
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They were one better in 2023, reaching the final and were in the cusp of victory, before losing 2-1 to host nation Ivory Coast.
However, Eric Chelle’s side head into the 2025 edition with much focus and an eye on clinching their first crown since 2013.
Kalou Identifies Four Players that can Help Nigeria Win
Ahead of the tournament which kicks off on the 21st of this month, Ivorian legend Kalou named Nigeria alongside Ivory Coast as favorites for the prestigious title, despite the presence of several football powerhouses.
The former Chelsea forward also identified four important members of the Super Eagles team, who could turn the tide in favor of their side.
“Nigeria look very strong this year. With Victor Osimhen leading the line, they have one of the most feared strikers in world football”, Kalou stated.
“Add in the pace and creativity of Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, plus Wilfred Ndidi’s stability in midfield, and you see a team with balance and depth. Nigeria were runners-up last time, and with this mix of stars they’ll believe they can go all the way.”
On who else are favorites to lift the trophy
“Senegal and Egypt also have to be mentioned”, he continued.
“Senegal’s squad is full of quality, with Sadio Mané and Kalidou Koulibaly still leading the way, while Egypt remain dangerous thanks to Mohamed Salah’s ability to decide matches on his own. Both nations have the pedigree to reach the knockout rounds and cause problems for anyone they face.
“For me, those are the teams most likely to be battling it out in the latter stages, but I do think Ivory Coast or Nigeria are the ones I’d put my money on.”
When will the 2025 AFCON start?
The 2025 edition of the African Cup of Nations will commence with an opening clash between hosts Morocco an Comoros on the 21st of this month.
24 nations will battle it out for glory in the North African country, with the final scheduled to hold on the 18th of January, 2026.
Nigeria begin action against Tanzania on the 23rd, before facing Tunisia and Uganda on the 27th and 30th respectively.
