The Super Eagles of Nigeria have officially turned their attention to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, following their failure to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. Coach Eric Chelle's recent release of a massive 54-man provisional squad has generated significant debate among Nigerian football fans.
The Road to Redemption in Morocco
The 35th edition of the AFCON is scheduled to be held in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. For Coach Eric Chelle, this tournament represents a critical chance for redemption. His tenure faced a major setback when the team could not secure a spot for the 2025 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Furthermore, his last AFCON outing ended in a painful 2-1 quarter-final defeat to hosts Ivory Coast after extra time. Now, the Franco-German tactician is determined to make history by leading Nigeria to its first AFCON triumph in over 12 years, claiming what would be the nation's fourth continental crown.
Contenders Ready to Challenge the Eagles
However, the path to glory in North Africa is fraught with danger. Several powerful African football nations are also eyeing the prestigious trophy and possess the quality to halt Nigeria's campaign. Here are the four primary challengers identified as the biggest threats to the Super Eagles' ambitions.
1. Senegal: The Complete Package
The Teranga Lions of Senegal remain one of the most balanced and formidable squads on the continent. They cruised through the qualifiers without suffering a single defeat, showcasing their strength and consistency. Senegal's threat lies in a rock-solid defensive unit capable of stifling any attack, combined with a potent and technical forward line that can breach the best defences. The team's heartbeat and creative genius, Al Nassr star Sadio Mane, retains the unique ability to conjure match-winning opportunities from nothing, making Senegal a top contender.
2. Algeria: The Resurgent Force
Algeria, known as the Desert Foxes, are on a determined mission of rebuilding after the disappointment of missing the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast. They return to the continental stage as one of the most technically gifted and dangerous sides. With a midfield brimming with creativity and a fluid, attacking style of play, Algeria has the potential for a deep tournament run. The experience and visionary play of Al Ahli's Riyad Mahrez will be central to their strategy, providing the guile needed to unlock stubborn defences.
3. Morocco: The Hosts and Favourites
Morocco is currently the standard-bearer for African football, achieving success from youth levels all the way to the senior team. The Atlas Lions enter AFCON 2025 with immense momentum, buoyed by their U20 team's recent World Cup victory. As hosts, they will enjoy significant support. Morocco's squad is exceptionally well-drilled, tactically disciplined, and arguably the strongest overall on the continent. Their talisman is the 2025 CAF Player of the Year, Achraf Hakimi. The Paris Saint-Germain defender, who just celebrated a UEFA Champions League triumph, is considered one of the most dangerous attacking full-backs in world football. Arsenal legend Emmanuel Petit has even labelled Morocco as the outright favourites to win the tournament.
4. Egypt: The Tournament Specialists
Never count out the most successful nation in AFCON history. The Pharaohs of Egypt hold a record seven titles and bring unparalleled tournament pedigree. While they may not always play the most flamboyant football, they are masters of tournament football—incredibly disciplined, structurally sound, and always prepared for the big stage. Egypt will heavily rely on the experience and class of players like Liverpool's iconic forward Mohamed Salah to guide them through the challenging knockout phases.
A Daunting Task for Chelle's Super Eagles
For Coach Eric Chelle and his Super Eagles, the message is clear. The dream of lifting the AFCON trophy in Morocco will have to be earned against some of the finest teams African football has ever produced. Overcoming the combined threat of Senegal's power, Algeria's technique, Morocco's host advantage, and Egypt's experience will require a flawless campaign. The release of the 54-man list is just the first step. The real test begins on December 21st, where Nigeria's quest for a fourth African crown will face its ultimate examination.
