AFCON 2025: Ivory Coast legend Salomon Kalou acknowledges Nigeria’s quality ahead of tournament

Former Ivory Coast international Solomon Kalou has acknowledged the qualities of the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.

The 35^th edition of the continental showpiece has been scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21 through to January 18, 2026, with 24 countries set to battle it out for the covetous trophy.

However, Kalou, who played a key role in the Elephants 2015 Africa Cup of Nations triumph over Ghana in Equatorial Guinea has expressed confidence in Nigeria making a big impact at the tournament in the North African country.

“Nigeria look very strong this year. With Victor Osimhen leading the line, they have one of the most feared strikers in world football. 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,” he told Duelbits.com.

“I do think Ivory Coast or Nigeria are the ones I’d put my money on”, he stated before picking Osimhen as favourite to be top scorer at the tournament.

Nigeria are paired in Group C against Tanzania, Tunisia and Uganda. The West Africa football giants are expected to open their account against Tanzania on December 23, 2025.