Former Senegal coach and Teranga Lions legend Aliou Cissé has named Nigeria’s Super Eagles among the top contenders for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations title in Morocco.

Cissé shared his thoughts following Libya’s elimination in the Arab Cup playoffs on Tuesday.

When asked about Senegal’s prospects of reclaiming the continental crown, the former defender expressed optimism but acknowledged the fierce competition expected at the tournament.

“I hope it will be Senegal, because I come from Senegal and my heart is with Senegal,” he said.

Beyond his home nation, Cissé identified four other strong favourites capable of lifting the trophy, including host nation Morocco, Algeria, record champions Egypt, and Nigeria, the runner-up at the last edition.

“Apart from Senegal, there are many teams capable of winning this AFCON. Morocco is also a contender, Algeria, Egypt, Nigeria,” he stated.

Cissé highlighted the unpredictability surrounding the African football showpiece, noting that, unlike the FIFA World Cup, AFCON remains notoriously difficult to forecast.

“In the Africa Cup of Nations, you can’t predict exactly who will win. In the World Cup, you can make predictions. But the Africa Cup of Nations is very complicated. There will always be surprises,” the former Senegal international said.

The 2025 AFCON will kick off in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, with 24 countries vying for the continental title.