The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) kicks off this Sunday in Morocco, with the host nation installed as the clear favourites to claim continental glory on home soil. As anticipation builds, we analyse the key contenders and identify value in the ante-post betting markets.
Atlas Lions Roar as Tournament Favourites
Morocco, ranked 11th in the world, are the standout picks with leading bookmakers, priced at 5/2 to win the tournament outright. The Atlas Lions carry the hopes of a nation and the significant advantage of a home crowd, a factor that has seen 12 host nations triumph in Afcon history.
Under manager Walid Regragui, this squad has proven its pedigree on the biggest stage, reaching the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Despite a shock early exit in the 2023 Afcon, their form has been strong, losing just twice since the start of 2024. The return of influential skipper Achraf Hakimi further bolsters a talented group aiming to end a trophy drought stretching back to 1976.
They face competition from traditional powerhouses. Senegal, Algeria, and Egypt are all considered strong contenders. Egypt, the record seven-time winners, boast the attacking threat of Mohamed Salah but last lifted the trophy in 2010.
Top Scorer Battle: Osimhen Leads the Charge
The race to be the tournament's leading marksman is fiercely contested. Nigeria's Victor Osimhen is the frontrunner at 6/1, having demonstrated prolific form for both club and country. The Galatasaray striker has netted 15 times in 20 appearances this season and boasts an impressive 31 goals in 45 caps for the Super Eagles.
His main rival is expected to be Egypt's Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool forward, despite recent domestic struggles, has scored twice in his last two internationals and will captain his side in Group B. A return to form on the international stage could see him challenge for the golden boot, but Osimhen's current momentum makes him the standout selection.
Ivory Coast to Navigate Group F Chaos
In the group stage, value can be found in backing defending champions Ivory Coast to win Group F at 10/11. While not considered a vintage Elephants squad, they possess significant tournament experience and a recall for veteran winger Wilfried Zaha.
Their path has been smoothed by considerable disarray in the camp of their main rivals, Cameroon. The Indomitable Lions are embroiled in a farcical situation with two managers—David Pagou and Marc Brys—each naming separate squads following a political dispute within the football association. This chaos, combined with a Gabon side potentially missing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and a Mozambique team yet to win an Afcon match, presents a clear opportunity for Ivory Coast to top the section.
The tournament promises a month of high drama and exceptional football, with Morocco aiming to join the list of triumphant host nations. Current holders Ivory Coast, at 6/1 to retain their crown, will believe home advantage can work for them as it did in 2023.
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