Ivory Coast is set to host the latest African Cup of Nations in January, but who will win the continent’s biggest competition?
The West African country was originally scheduled to compete in the competition in 2021 but had to wait another three years to host AFCON. The draw for the tournament took place in October 2023 and the teams were divided into six exciting groups. Hosts Ivory Coast are in Group A alongside Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau, while Egypt, looking to avenge their last loss two years ago, will start the season in Group B against Ghana, Cape Verde, and Mozambique.
Meanwhile, defending champions Senegal will begin their title defense in Group C against five-time winners Cameroon, Guinea, and Gambia.
In Group E, Tunisia are one of the favorites to win after drawing with Mali, South Africa, and Namibia.
Morocco continues their good form after their historic World Cup success in Qatar, becoming the first African team to reach the semi-finals.
In Group F, Morocco will face the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, and Tanzania, aiming to win the tournament for the first time since 1976.
Despite this lone victory, the Atlas Lions are one of the favorites to win.
Many fans will be paying attention to AFCON, which will feature many African star players.
A look at the last AFCON shows how much it dominated the landscape not only of the host country but of African countries.
Egypt is the most successful team in the African Cup of Nations. Pharaohs have an impressive record of seven championships, from 2006 until 2010, when he won three tournaments in a row.
However, Salah, known as the ‘King of Egypt’, has yet to win a major international trophy for Egypt.
Will Senegal defend their title and lift the trophy for the second time, or will a new team be crowned African Cup of Nations winners?