AFCON 2015: Raymond Domenech Tips Algeria as Tournament Favourites
With the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations fast approaching, former France national team coach Raymond Domenech has named Algeria as his clear favourite to lift the trophy in Equatorial Guinea.
Speaking in a recent interview, the ex-Lyon manager highlighted Algeria’s recent performances on the international stage as evidence of their title credentials.
“I think Algeria are the team to beat,” Domenech said. “They had a fantastic run at the World Cup, reaching the Round of 16, and they carried that form into their AFCON qualifiers, winning five out of six matches. That shows consistency and quality.”
Algeria, known as Les Fennecs, were widely praised for their spirited showing at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where they pushed eventual champions Germany to extra time in the Round of 16. Since then, the North Africans have continued to impress, topping their qualifying group with authority.
Domenech believes Group C, which includes Algeria, Senegal, Ghana, and South Africa, will be tough—but not for the Algerians.
“This group will be difficult for the other three teams, not for Algeria. They’ve shown they are currently the best team on the continent. They are not just favourites—they are potential champions.”
He also pointed to the competitiveness of Group D, which features heavyweights Mali, Cameroon, Ivory Coast, and Guinea, predicting surprises may emerge from that pool.
Domenech is not alone in his assessment. Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema, who is of Algerian descent, also recently declared Algeria as his pick to win the tournament, citing their balance, experience, and attacking firepower.
The 2015 Africa Cup of Nations will kick off on 17 January and run through 8 February. All eyes will be on Algeria to see if they can live up to their billing and claim their first continental title since 1990.
