Ghanaian football icon Asamoah Gyan has stirred conversations across African football circles with his bold predictions for the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco.
Gyan's Disappointment and Bold Predictions
The former Black Stars captain expressed his profound disappointment over Ghana's failure to qualify for the tournament, marking the first time since 2004 that the four-time champions will miss Africa's premier football competition. Ghana's elimination came after a 1-1 draw with Angola last November, ending their remarkable streak of 24 consecutive appearances.
Despite his personal disappointment, Gyan identified three nations he believes are frontrunners for the coveted trophy. The 2010 BBC Football Player of the Year specifically mentioned Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Morocco as the strongest contenders for the championship.
"I think we've got a lot of giants who are going there," Gyan stated. "Ghana is out, which we were very disappointed by, but that's okay, we qualified for the World Cup. Yes, Nigeria did well, they were close the last time. Ivory Coast did well; we have a lot of teams. Morocco is also a strong contender, and they're doing well."
Super Eagles Get Strong Backing
Gyan's prediction finds support from former Super Eagles defender Sam Elijah, who exclusively told Legit.ng that he agrees with the Ghanaian legend's assessment. Elijah believes Nigeria has what it takes to claim the trophy, especially with the added motivation from their failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
"Asamoah Gyan is one of the most respected ex-internationals in Africa and I will agree with his prediction," Elijah commented. "We should expect a different Super Eagles in the AFCON because these players are wounded and would channel their anger to the AFCON."
The former FIFA U17 World Cup winner expressed confidence that Nigeria would prevail in the tournament scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. Nigeria, who lost 2-1 to host Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON final, will be seeking redemption in Morocco.
Tournament Setup and Challenges
The Super Eagles have been drawn in Group C alongside North African giants Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda. However, Uganda's coach Paul Put has already issued a strong warning, stating that his side will not be intimidated by any of their Group C opponents, including group favorites Nigeria.
Gyan's analysis highlights the competitive nature of this year's tournament, with multiple football powerhouses ready to battle for continental supremacy. The absence of Ghana adds an unusual dynamic to the competition, while reigning champions Ivory Coast aim to defend their title on foreign soil.
As the football community anticipates what promises to be an exciting tournament, Gyan's predictions have set the stage for intense competition among Africa's football elite, with Nigeria receiving particularly strong endorsements from both sides of the Ghana-Nigeria football rivalry.
