AFCON 2024: Top 5 Favorites to Lift the Trophy

The 34th Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in just a few weeks, promising electrifying football and fierce competition across the continent. While predicting the tournament’s winner is always a tricky task, several strong contenders stand out as favorites to hoist the coveted trophy. Here are the top 5 teams poised to make a deep run in AFCON 2024:

1. Senegal:

The reigning champions, Senegal, enter the tournament as the undisputed favorites. Led by the talismanic Sadio Mané, the Lions of Teranga boast a potent blend of experience and youthful exuberance. Their recent AFCON triumph, coupled with a strong showing at the World Cup, has instilled a winning mentality within the squad. Their impressive midfield duo of Cheikhou Kouyate and Idrissa Gueye provides a solid foundation, while Ismaïla Sarr’s pace and Kalidou Koulibaly defensive prowess and experience offer further depth. Senegal’s biggest challenge will be replicating their title-winning form and weathering the inevitable pressure of being favorites.

Senegal players celebrating their Afcon win in 2022

2. Morocco:

Fresh off their historic World Cup run, where they became the first African nation to reach the semifinals, Morocco are another strong contender for AFCON glory. The Atlas Lions possess a well-oiled machine of a team, with Hakim Ziyech’s creativity and Youssef En-Nesyri’s finishing spearheading their attack. Achraf Hakimi’s marauding runs from right-back and Romain Saïss’s leadership at the back are key defensive components. If they can maintain their consistency and avoid complacency, Morocco can be a real force to be reckoned with.

Morocco players celebrating their 2022 world cup triumph against Portugal

3. Egypt:

The record seven-time AFCON champions, Egypt, are always a threat on the continental stage. Mohamed Salah’s goal scoring prowess is well-documented, and his presence alone elevates the Pharaohs’ potential. Mohamed Elneny adds experience and control in midfield, while Omar Marmoush’s recent form provides additional attacking options. However, Egypt’s dependence on Salah can be a double-edged sword, and their aging squad raises questions about their stamina throughout the tournament.

Mohamed Salah

4. Nigeria:

The Super Eagles remain a significant force in African football, despite their recent AFCON struggles. Victor Osimhen’s firepower upfront is undeniable, and Kelechi Iheanacho’s creativity adds another dimension to their attack. Wilfred Ndidi’s presence in midfield provides steel and discipline, while Samuel Chukwueze’s pace and trickery offer attacking spark. Nigeria’s biggest challenge will be overcoming their inconsistency and finding a way to translate individual talent into collective success.

Nigeria Super Eagles

5. Ivory Coast:

As tournament hosts, the Elephants have an added incentive to go all the way. Led by the experienced Sébastien Haller and the exciting Wilfried Zaha, Ivory Coast’s attack possesses plenty of firepower. Nicolas Pépé’s dribbling and crossing ability add width and creativity, while Odilon Kossounou’s presence at the back provides defensive solidity. The Elephants will need to harness the home crowd’s energy and channel it into consistent performances if they are to challenge for the title.

Ivory coast

These five teams stand out as the top contenders for AFCON 2024 glory, but the tournament’s beauty lies in its unpredictability. Underdog nations can rise to the occasion, and unexpected heroes can emerge. Whoever lifts the trophy on the final day, AFCON 2024 promises to be a spectacle of African football’s finest talents.

Remember, this is just a snapshot of the tournament’s potential contenders. Keep an eye out for other exciting teams like Algeria, Cameroon, and Ghana, who can also cause upsets and shake up the competition. So, grab your vuvuzelas, settle in, and prepare to witness the best of African football on display!