AFCON 2025: Senegal Legend Aliou Cissé Tips Super Eagles as Top Contenders for the Title
Senegal legend and former national team coach Aliou Cissé has included Nigeria’s Super Eagles among the leading favourites to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), which kicks off next month in Morocco.
The Super Eagles, three-time champions, will be aiming to secure a fourth continental crown as they head into the tournament with renewed confidence and a squad packed with top-level talent.
Speaking to WinWin, Cissé highlighted Nigeria’s quality and pedigree, naming them alongside the continent’s biggest football powers.
“The Moroccan national team is a contender, and Senegal is also a contender, of course, and there are other teams such as Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria,” he said.
Nigeria will compete in Group C, alongside Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda. Eric Chelle’s men begin their AFCON campaign against Tanzania’s Taifa Stars on Tuesday, 23 December, in Fez.
Opinion: Super Eagles Carry Weight of Expectation — But Also the Power to Deliver
Aliou Cissé’s endorsement isn’t just empty praise; it reflects a growing truth—Nigeria’s Super Eagles remain one of Africa’s strongest football nations, even in the midst of occasional inconsistency.
On paper, the team has everything needed to go all the way:
Players starring in Europe’s top leagues,
A solid blend of youth and experience,
And the hunger to reclaim continental glory.
However, the road to the trophy will not be easy. AFCON is unpredictable, emotional, and ruthless—one mistake can send a heavyweight home early. Group C itself is no walkover; Tunisia brings tactical discipline, Uganda brings energy, and Tanzania has grown into a fearless, fast-developing side.
But what sets Nigeria apart is their ability to rise on the big stage. When the pressure peaks, the Super Eagles often find new wings.
If they can maintain focus, stay united, and keep their attacking firepower sharp, Nigeria won’t just be contenders—they could be the team to beat in Morocco.
For now, Cissé’s prediction adds fuel to the excitement.
The continent is watching.
The expectations are high.
And the Super Eagles have a golden chance to soar again.
