Former Arsenal star Emmanuel Petit has delivered his verdict on the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, naming his two primary favourites for the title and notably leaving out the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
Petit's Picks: Hosts Morocco Lead the Charge
In a recent interview, the French World Cup winner pinpointed Morocco as the outright favourite to win the 35th edition of AFCON. Petit emphasised the dual advantage of a talented squad and home support for the Atlas Lions.
"Who are my favourites to win the Africa Cup of Nations? I would have to say Morocco because of the players they have, and they are playing at home," Petit told Snabbare. He specifically highlighted the quality within the team, referencing reigning African Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi, though the PSG star is currently a doubt due to an ankle injury.
Petit also pointed to the significant national expectation and investment from the Moroccan monarchy as factors that could drive the host nation. Morocco's remarkable run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals was cited as further proof of their continental and global stature.
South Africa Tipped as the Major Dark Horse
Beyond the hosts, Petit identified South Africa's Bafana Bana as the tournament's dark horse. He stated that their recent qualification for the 2026 World Cup makes them a team that cannot be ruled out.
"That being said, you can't rule out South Africa either after qualifying for the World Cup. Bafana Bafana are underdogs to go all the way at the Africa Cup of Nations," he added.
The former midfielder acknowledged the work of coach Hugo Broos, who led Cameroon to the 2017 AFCON title and has now guided South Africa to a World Cup berth. Broos has already announced his final squad, signalling his team's readiness for the challenge in Morocco.
Super Eagles Absent from Contention
In his assessment, Petit's snub of the Super Eagles of Nigeria is particularly notable. Nigeria, the runner-up at the last edition in Cote d'Ivoire, fell to a 2-1 defeat in the final against the Elephants.
This omission comes despite other football figures, like former Nigeria coach Sunday Oliseh, offering their own ratings of the team's chances. Petit's focus remained firmly on Morocco's home advantage and South Africa's resurgence under Broos.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, across multiple cities in Morocco. Defending champions Cote d'Ivoire will aim to retain their crown, but according to Petit, the main threats will come from elsewhere.
