Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan names Morocco, Ivory Coast and Nigeria as favourites to win 2025 AFCON

Ghana legend Asamoah Gyan has tipped Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Morocco as the leading contenders to win the 2025 CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations.

Speaking during the CAF Awards ceremony in Morocco on Wednesday night, the former Black Stars captain outlined the three nations he believes stand above the rest ahead of next year’s tournament.

Gyan, who expressed his disappointment over Ghana’s failure to qualify for the competition, said the strength of the teams heading to Morocco makes the upcoming AFCON one of the most competitive in recent years.

“We have a lot of giants who are going there. Ghana is out, which we are very disappointed about, but it is okay; we qualify for the World Cup,” he said.

The former striker highlighted Nigeria’s impressive run at the last tournament in Côte d’Ivoire, where the Super Eagles reached the final before falling 2–1 to the hosts.

“Nigeria did well; they were close the last two years. Ivory Coast did well; we have a lot of teams,” Gyan noted.

He added that Morocco, the host nation, will also be a force, backed by home support and consistent performances.

“Morocco is also a strong contender, who are also doing well. I will say these three countries that I have mentioned, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Morocco,” Gyan added.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to kick off on December 21, with the final set for January 18, 2026.