The Africa Cup of Nations will take center stage in Morocco at the tail end of the year, and this 35th edition is looking to be a huge affair for the continent. As such, football fans and pundits have been speculating on what country will lift the AFCON 2025 trophy.

We’re not clairvoyants to tell you what team will emerge as winners. This article will shed light on possible champions. We’ll also deliver betting tips to help you cash in on this revered tournament. Let’s get going!

When Is AFCON 2025 Holding?

From the announced schedule, the 2025 AFCON is billed for a 21st of December kickoff, with proceedings expected to come to an end on the 18th of January, 2026. During this timeline, a total of 52 matches will be played.

Morocco will be the host nation. For context, the last time they hosted this event was in 1988, where Cameroon emerged as AFCON winners after a valiant battle with Nigeria.

Here are stadiums that’ll feature in the hotly-contested tournament:

• Complexe Sportif Prince Héritier Moulay El Hassan, Rabat
• Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
• Stade Mohammed V, Casablanca
• Complexe Sportif de Fes, Fes
• Stade El Barid, Rabat
• Stade Annexe Olympique Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
• Grand Stade de Marrakech, Marrakech
• Grand Stage de Tanger, Tangier

• Grand Stade d’Agadir, Agadir

Top Four Favourites to Win the Africa Cup of Nations Title in 2025

“In football, everything is complicated by the presence of the opposite team.”

Going by this quote by Jean-Paul Sartre, it’s almost impossible to tell what team will emerge as winners in football tournaments like the Africa Nations Cup.

Nonetheless, here’s an overview of four nations that could win AFCON 2025 in Morocco:

Nigeria

It’s no surprise as to why this nation ranks as a top contender for the 2025 AFCON triumph. After a frustrating second-place finish in AFCON 2023, the Super Eagles will fancy their chances of going all the way this time around.

Nigeria’s squad is strong, with the likes of striker Victor Osimhen leading the charge. They’re in Group C, alongside Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania; this draw will give the Super Eagles a solid foundation to gel before the knockout rounds.

Morocco

Having automatically qualified in this year’s AFCON due to its position as hosts, Morocco has a lot going for it. This includes home soil support, climate familiarity, and less travel distance. They’ll open the tournament in a match against Comoros, and will be looking to cement their dominance from the get-go.

This nation’s football squad has an excellent head coach (Walid Regragui) and some of the world’s best players on its roster. Achraf Hakimi and Hakim Ziyech are some of the names leading the charge for the home nation. The Moroccan national team had a Cinderella run in the 2022 FIFA World Cup where it finished fourth. If the Atlas Lions can replicate that form or something similar, they could go all the way and lift the AFCON title.

Ivory Coast

Ivory Coast are AFCON reigning champions, after defeating the Super Eagles in the 2023 edition. The team will feature in Group F alongside Gabon, Cameroon, and Mozambique.

As one of Africa’s strongest football teams, they’ve got a smooth path to the knockout rounds; however, Cameroon (AKA Indomitable Lions or Lions of Teranga) could prove a tough nut to crack with hungry and technical forwards like Vincent Aboubakar and Bryan Mbuemo.

As mentioned, Ivory Coast are no slouch themselves. Lethal strikers (Nicolas Pepe and Simon Adingra) and sturdy midfield players (Franck Kessie and Seko Fofana) offer the technical flexibility required to defeat opponents with relative ease.

Senegal

Senegal isn’t at the summit of African football. However, its reputation has risen in recent years. In the 2022 World Cup, they bowed out in the quarterfinals. Before that, Senegal won the 2021 AFCON. These facts make them a front-runner in this year’s Africa Nations Cup.

Senegal will play against DR Congo, Botswana, and Benin Republic in the group stage. With players such as Sadio Mane, Kalidou Koulibaly, Idrissa Gueye, and Cheikhou Kouyate, Senegal should advance into the knockout stages comfortably.

With a resilient spirit, Senegal is well-equipped for knockout games where high-pitched pressure is the norm. As such, they’re serious contenders to be Morocco 2025 AFCON champions.

2025 AFCON Betting Tips: How to Make the Best of the Tournament as a Punter

“Success depends upon previous preparation, and without such preparation there is sure to be failure.”

This quote by Confucius, a Chinese philosopher, applies to all walks of life, betting inclusive.

You can increase your chances of winning bets made during AFCON by adopting these tips:

1. Bet on the Front Runners

Consider betting on top nations such as Nigeria, Morocco, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. However, don’t ignore Egypt, Ghana, and Algeria; these are dark horses that could spring up surprises during the tournament.

2. Compare Betting Sites

If you intend betting on AFCON for real money, you must be ready to put in the work by searching for the best bookmakers. According to tipster, Kate Richardson, a good way to start is to visit trusted review sites so that you can compare online sportsbooks in your country.

That way, you can see what sites have the best odds, bonuses, and customer support. When you settle for one that ticks all these boxes, you’ll have a fun-filled wagering adventure.

3. Bet on Individual Awards

One of the safest bets to make during tournaments like the AFCON are on individual awards. For example, you can bet on Mohamed Salah to win the Golden Boot award. Since 2024 & 2025 statistics place him as a prolific league goal scorer, the chances of this bet being successful are high.

Final Thoughts

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will be upon us shortly. With 24 teams in the mix, we’ve highlighted the nations that are poised to lift the trophy. If you intend betting on events tied to this tournament, consider placing wagers on the top sides and star-studded individuals. For your bets to be profitable (if it wins), ensure your chosen sportsbook offers competitive odds.

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With exceptional performances from Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo, Japan achieved the distinction of being the first nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. Explore the pivotal moments and unfolding narratives.

Kamada and Kubo Steal the Show

Picture this: a chilly March evening at Saitama Stadium, where 60,000 fans held their breath as the latest soccer livescores flashed 0-0 at halftime—then erupted when Kamada and Kubo turned prophets. Japan’s 2-0 dagger through Bahrain on March 20, 2025, wasn’t just a win; it was a historic stamp on their 2026 World Cup ticket, making them the first non-host nation to qualify. But beyond the stats lies the real drama: Hajime Moriyasu’s tactical gamble to bench veterans for youth, Kubo’s coming-of-age moment, and a defence that hasn’t conceded in 487 minutes. This is how the Samurai Blue went from “promising” to “legit contenders”—and why their World Cup dark horse status just got teeth.

Kamada’s Game-Changing Spark Off the Bench

If you’re looking for a player who can change the tide in an instant, DaichiKamada is your guy. The Crystal Palace midfielder came off the bench in the 63rd minute against Bahrain, and just three minutes later, he had the crowd on its feet. A slick move started with defender Hiroki Ito finding Ayase Ueda, who linked up with Kubo to set up Kamada’s superb finish. It was the kind of goal that screams teamwork and precision—qualities Japan has in spades. Kamada’s ability to deliver in clutch moments raises a big question: could he be the midfield maestro to guide Japan past the Round of 16, a barrier they’ve hit in four previous World Cups? Keep an eye on him as Japan fine-tunes their squad for 2026.

Kubo’s Star Turn: The Heart of Japan’s Attack

Takefusa Kubo was the heartbeat of Japan’s attack, and his performance against Bahrain was pure magic. The Real Sociedad playmaker was a constant threat, weaving through defenders and creating chances. His reverse pass for Kamada’s opener was a thing of beauty, and his 87th-minute goal—sneaking a shot past Bahrain’s goalkeeper at the near post—put the cherry on top. Kubo’s flair and fearlessness make him a fan favourite, but more importantly, they make him a nightmare for opponents. As Japan prepares for the World Cup, will Kubo emerge as the talisman to lead them to new heights? His stock is rising, and the world is watching.

Japan’s Dominance in Group C: A Statement of Intent

Japan’s qualification wasn’t just fast—it was dominant. With 19 points from seven games in Group C, they’ve left second-placed Australia trailing by nine points. Their campaign has been a masterclass, with 22 goals scored and just two conceded in the third round of Asian qualifiers. From a 5-0 thrashing of Bahrain in Riffa to a 2-0 statement win over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah, Japan has shown they’re not just Asia’s best but a global contender. Coach Hajime Moriyasu’s adventurous 3-4-2-1 formation, packed with attackers like Kubo, Kaoru Mitoma, and Takumi Minamino, has unlocked their potential. The big question now is: can this attacking firepower translate to success against Europe and South America’s giants in the 2026 World Cup?

Storylines to Watch Before 2026

Japan’s qualification is just the beginning. Here are the key narratives to follow as they gear up for the World Cup:

• Breaking the Round of 16 Curse: Japan reached the knockout stage in 2002, 2010, 2018, and 2022 but has never advanced further. With a golden generation of talent, is 2026 their year to make a deeper run?
• Moriyasu’s Tactical Evolution: Moriyasu’s shift to an attacking style has paid dividends, but a 0-0 draw against Saudi Arabia showed they can struggle against compact defences. Howwillhetweakthesystemfortoughertests?
• The Rise of Young Stars: Alongside Kubo, players like Mitoma and Ritsu Doan are hitting their prime. Can this youthful core gel into a cohesive unit by the time the tournament kicks off?
• Friendly Matches and Preparation: With three qualifiers left and friendlies on the horizon, Japan has time to experiment. Will Moriyasu test new faces or stick with his trusted stars?

Why Japan’s Qualification Matters

Japan’s early qualification isn’t just a milestone—it’s a declaration. For fans tracking all live mobile scores during their dominant campaign, one truth became clear: this isn’t the Samurai Blue of old. Since their 1998 World Cup debut, they’ve evolved from plucky underdogs to a force, now qualifying for eight straight tournaments with a squad dripping in European pedigree. From Kamada’sBundesliga grit to Kubo’s La Liga flair, this team blends technical fearlessness with tactical discipline. And that’s why the dream feels different this time. With 18 months to refine their chemistry, could 2026 finally see Japan shatter the glass ceiling—not just reaching the quarterfinals, but rewriting Asia’s footballing destiny?

As the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico draws closer, Japan’s journey is one to watch. Kamada and Kubo have lit the spark, but the fire is just getting started. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual viewer, Japan’s blend of grit, flair, and ambition makes it a team you can’t ignore. So, grab your scarf, mark your calendar, and get ready to cheer for the Samurai Blue—they’re prepared to make history.