Botswana head coach Morena Ramoreboli has outlined his favorites for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The South African tactician believes the host nation will be the team to beat, but also sees Algeria, Egypt, Tunisia, and South Africa as strong contenders for the title.
Morocco seen as the leading contender
With AFCON 2025 set to take place in Morocco, Ramoreboli considers the Atlas Lions the primary favorites.
Morocco have been one of the strongest African sides in recent years, highlighted by their historic run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals—the first African nation to achieve the feat.
“I think Morocco is the first favourite as the host country,” Ramoreboli stated. “They have a strong squad, passionate supporters, and will have the advantage of playing at home.”
South Africa’s chances and other top contenders
Ramoreboli, who hails from South Africa, also backs Bafana Bafana to make a deep run in the tournament.
South Africa impressed at AFCON 2024, reaching the semi-finals before finishing third after defeating DR Congo on penalties.
“Maybe South Africa too,” he said when asked about the potential winners. “They showed their quality in the last tournament, and I believe they can challenge again.”
Beyond Morocco and South Africa, the Botswana coach identified Algeria, Egypt, and Tunisia as teams capable of lifting the trophy.
“I am also banking on Algeria, Egypt, and Tunisia,” he added. “These are nations with rich footballing histories, and they always perform well in major tournaments.”
An intensely competitive AFCON expected
Ramoreboli anticipates AFCON 2025 to be one of the toughest editions yet, with an extremely high level of competition.
What is certain is that this edition of the Africa Cup of Nations will be very, very difficult, and the level will be very high,” he concluded.
Botswana’s AFCON ambitions
Botswana will be making only their second-ever appearance at AFCON, having last qualified in 2012.
While they may not be among the tournament favorites, Ramoreboli and his squad will be aiming to make history and cause an upset in Morocco.
With teams like Morocco, Algeria, Egypt, and South Africa poised to challenge for the title, the stage is set for an exciting and fiercely competitive 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
