With less than a month until the kick-off of the much-anticipated Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, 2024, football enthusiasts are in a fervor, coaches are refining strategies, and supporters are debating fiercely, playing their cards on who might clinch the coveted cup.
The landscape of favorites is crystallizing, and five nations stand out as strong contenders to claim the ultimate glory.
Senegal: As the reigning African champion, Senegal, led by coach Aliou Cissé, is determined to defend its title. The team boasts a formidable defense with the likes of Kalidou Koulibaly and Moussa Niakhaté, complemented by the goalkeeping prowess of Edouard Mendy.
The midfield remains robust, featuring talents like Pape Matar Sarr and the experienced Idrissa Gana Gueye. Spearheading the attack is the dynamic Sadio Mané, supported by a potent lineup including Iliman Ndiaye, Ismaïla Sarr, and Boulaye Dia.
Egypt: A seven-time winner of the Cup, Egypt, led by the prolific Mohamed Salah, is perennially considered a favorite. Salah, aiming to emulate his teammate Sadio Mané’s success, will be supported by goalkeeper Mohamed El-Shenawy and attacking talents like Mahmoud Trézéguet and Mostafa Mohamed.
Morocco: The top-ranked African nation in FIFA rankings and CAF’s best African nation in 2023, Morocco, with its impressive World Cup semi-final appearance, enters the tournament as a legitimate favorite. Under the guidance of the acclaimed coach, the Atlas Lions, led by Yassine Bono, seek to confirm their status as a football powerhouse on the continent.
Ivory Coast: As the host nation, Ivory Coast, managed by the seasoned Jean-Louis Gasset, carries the weight of expectations. The youthful squad, featuring talents like goalkeeper Yahia Fofana, midfielder Simon Adingra, and Salzburg striker Karim Konaté, is backed by experienced players including captain Serge Aurier, Séko Fofana, Franck Kessié, and Sébastian Haller. The Elephants aim to secure their third star on home soil.
Nigeria: Boasting the best attack in the qualifiers, Nigeria, with the likes of Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, Terem Moffi, and Samuel Chukwueze, is determined to erase past disappointments. The Super Eagles, three-time African champions, led by their neo-African golden ball winner Victor Osimhen, prioritize an offensive approach, seeking to outscore opponents.
As the excitement builds, the race for the AFCON 2023 title promises to be fiercely contested, with these five nations emerging as frontrunners for football glory.
