Kalou: AFCON 2025 belongs to Nigeria or Côte d’Ivoire
Former Chelsea forward and Africa Cup of Nations winner Salomon Kalou has backed Nigeria and his native Côte d’Ivoire as the leading contenders for the upcoming AFCON 2025, placing them ahead of host nation Morocco, defending champions Senegal, and Mohamed Salah’s Egypt.
Speaking in an interview with Tribuna.com, Kalou revealed the reason behind his choice.
‘Nigeria have an incredible pool of attacking talent, while Côte d’Ivoire are building a balanced team with experience and youth. If I had to put my money down, it would be on Nigeria or Côte d’Ivoire.’
Kalou, who lifted the AFCON trophy with Côte d’Ivoire in 2015, explained that the Super Eagles’ attacking depth, led by Victor Osimhen, and the Elephants’ mix of seasoned internationals and rising stars such as Simon Adingra and Oumar Diakité, make them the standout favourites.
He also reflected on the meaning of the tournament:
‘AFCON is the heartbeat of African football. Every match carries history, every goal feels bigger because it’s for your country. Winning it with Ivory Coast in 2015 was the highlight of my career, and I believe Nigeria or Côte d’Ivoire are best placed to experience that joy in 2025.’
While tipping Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire as his top picks, Kalou acknowledged the strength of other challengers:
On Morocco: ‘They showed at the World Cup they can compete with anyone, and playing at home gives them an edge.’
On Senegal: ‘As defending champions, they have the mentality and the leadership of Sadio Mané to go far again.’
On Egypt: ‘With Mohamed Salah, they always have a chance. He can change games on his own.’
On Cameroon and South Africa: ‘They are dangerous outsiders with tournament pedigree. You can never rule them out.’
Kalou concluded by insisting his money will still be on Nigeria or Cote D’Ivoire for the trophy.
‘If I had to put my money down, it would be on Nigeria or Côte d’Ivoire. But AFCON always surprises us, and that’s why it is the most exciting tournament in African football.’
