Renowned French coach and former Ghana national team manager, Claude Le Roy, has identified Morocco and Nigeria as the two leading contenders to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With the highly anticipated tournament set to begin later this month and run into January next year, Le Roy’s insights have added further excitement and debate among football fans across the continent.
Le Roy, widely respected for his deep knowledge of African football, shared his projections in an interview with Canal+, expressing confidence that both Morocco and Nigeria possess the quality and momentum to challenge for the title. His comments come at a crucial moment as teams make their final preparations ahead of kickoff.
A Veteran Voice in African Football
Claude Le Roy is no stranger to the AFCON stage. With over four decades of coaching experience across Africa, including stints with Ghana, Cameroon, DR Congo, Senegal, Togo, and Congo, he is regarded as one of the competition’s most experienced tacticians. Often referred to as the “White Wizard,” Le Roy has participated in multiple AFCON tournaments—winning the trophy with Cameroon in 1988 and guiding several nations into the latter stages over the years.
Given his longstanding influence and understanding of African football dynamics, his views carry considerable weight in discussions surrounding tournament favourites.
Morocco’s Rise Under the Spotlight
In the interview, Le Roy stated that Morocco holds the strongest advantage heading into the 2025 edition, especially as the host nation. The Atlas Lions are returning to their home country to stage the continent’s top football event for the first time in decades, bringing added morale and national support to their campaign.
Morocco has enjoyed a surge in global recognition following their historic semi-final run at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar—the first African team ever to reach that stage. Under coach Walid Regragui, the team has developed a well-balanced style built on technical discipline, tactical organisation, and star quality.
Players such as Achraf Hakimi, Youssef En-Nesyri, Sofyan Amrabat, Hakim Ziyech, and Azzedine Ounahi remain central to Morocco’s growing reputation. Their strong home advantage, combined with their recent global performances, is a major reason behind Le Roy’s confidence in their chances.
Nigeria’s Super Eagles Remain Strong Contenders
Le Roy also emphasised that Nigeria remains one of the top favourites to challenge Morocco for the trophy. Although the Super Eagles finished as runners-up in the 2023 AFCON after losing 2–1 to Ivory Coast in the final, the team has shown consistency in recent years and continues to boast one of the most talented squads on the continent.
Nigeria’s attacking firepower is unmatched, with top forwards playing in Europe’s elite leagues. Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, and Victor Boniface headline a strong offensive lineup. Their blend of pace, creativity, and strength gives them the ability to break down any defence in the competition.
Defensively, Nigeria has also seen major improvements, with solid performances from the likes of William Troost-Ekong, Olisa Ndah, and Calvin Bassey in previous international outings. As the Super Eagles prepare for their group-stage opener against Tanzania, expectations remain high among supporters that this may finally be their year to reclaim continental glory.
Reigning Champions Ivory Coast Not Among Top Picks
Interestingly, Le Roy’s assessment leaves out the reigning champions, Ivory Coast, who staged a dramatic tournament victory during the last AFCON. The Elephants, who hosted the 2023 competition, defeated Nigeria 2–1 in the final to lift their third continental title. Their triumph was widely celebrated due to the team’s resilience, spectacular performances, and remarkable comeback stories.
However, Le Roy believes that while Ivory Coast remains a competitive side, they do not enter the 2025 tournament as the primary favourites. The pressure of defending the title, combined with squad transitions and tactical shifts, could influence their consistency in the new competition. Still, many analysts expect the Ivorians to be strong challengers, even if they are not Le Roy’s top picks.
2025 AFCON Kicks Off With High Expectations
The 2025 AFCON promises to be one of the most exciting editions yet. With Morocco hosting, the atmosphere is expected to be electric, blending football passion with North Africa’s rich cultural heritage. The host nation will begin their campaign against Comoros, a fixture that will set the tone for their ambitions.
Nigeria, on the other hand, will begin their journey against Tanzania in a match many predict the Super Eagles will dominate. But AFCON tournaments are known for surprises, with underdogs often shocking top teams in the early stages.
The tournament’s schedule will see group-stage matches played across several Moroccan cities, each venue prepared to host thousands of supporters from across the continent and beyond.
Le Roy’s Final Take
In summarising his predictions, Claude Le Roy explained:
“Yes, Nigeria remains one of the favourites for the AFCON after Morocco.”
His simple yet firm statement has since circulated widely, sparking discussions among fans, pundits, and football analysts. While predictions may vary, the AFCON remains a tournament defined by intensity, unpredictability, and emotional drama. With top teams, rising stars, and passionate supporters, all eyes will be on Morocco as Africa’s biggest football competition kicks off.
As anticipation builds, one thing remains certain—AFCON 2025 will deliver excitement, rivalry, and unforgettable moments.
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