The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations promises to be one of the most competitive editions in recent memory, with several powerhouses arriving in Morocco with genuine ambitions of lifting the trophy. From defending champions Ivory Coast to record winners Egypt, here's a look at the teams expected to challenge for glory.
Morocco: The Host Nation
Ranked 11th in the world and the highest-placed African nation on the FIFA rankings, Morocco enter the tournament as one of the clear favorites. The Atlas Lions carry the weight of expectation following their historic run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semifinals in Qatar.
Under head coach Walid Regragui, Morocco have developed into a formidable unit. They qualified automatically as hosts but won all six qualifying matches, scoring 26 goals and conceding just two. Brahim Díaz was top scorer in qualifying with seven goals in four matches.
Despite their recent global success, Morocco have won the Africa Cup of Nations only once, in 1976. This tournament also serves as a dress rehearsal for the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which they will co-host with Spain and Portugal.
Ivory Coast: Defending Champions
The Elephants arrive as holders after a stunning comeback victory on home soil in 2024. Ivory Coast rallied from an early group-stage exit to beat Nigeria 2-1 in the final, lifting their third continental crown.
With the likes of Sébastien Haller and a talented squad, coach Emerse Faé's side will be determined to defend their title and become the first team since Egypt (2006-2010) to win back-to-back tournaments.
Egypt: Record Winners Seeking an Eighth Title
The Pharaohs are the most successful team in AFCON history with seven titles. Led by Liverpool star Mohamed Salah, Egypt will be hoping speculation over his club future does not distract from their bid for a record-extending eighth continental crown.
Egypt have finished runners-up in three of the last four editions (2017, 2021) and are desperate to add to their trophy haul. They have also qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding to their momentum heading into Morocco.
Senegal: The 2021 Champions
Sadio Mané's Senegal won their first-ever AFCON title in 2021 and remain one of Africa's elite teams. The Lions of Teranga have the most Premier League players in their squad for AFCON 2025 with six, led by the Everton duo of Idrissa Gana Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye.
Having tasted success for the first time, Senegal will be hungry for more and have the squad depth to challenge for another title.
Nigeria: Redemption Mission
The Super Eagles were heartbroken after losing the 2024 final to Ivory Coast, and Victor Osimhen and his teammates will be out for revenge. Three-time AFCON winners, Nigeria have consistently been among the continent's top performers.
Algeria: The 2019 Champions
The Desert Warriors won their second AFCON title in 2019 under Djamel Belmadi, with Riyad Mahrez leading the charge. While they have struggled in recent tournaments, Algeria remain a threat with their blend of tactical intelligence and technical finesse.
Dark Horses
Cameroon's Indomitable Lions, with five AFCON titles, can never be discounted. South Africa, who stunned Morocco in the 2023 Round of 16, have shown they can upset the big names. Tunisia, qualifying for their 17th consecutive AFCON, bring experience and tournament know-how.
Seven teams at AFCON 2025 have also qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup: Algeria, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Morocco, Senegal, South Africa, and Tunisia, highlighting the quality on display in Morocco.