France's World Cup-winning manager, Didier Deschamps, has delivered a surprising verdict on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, naming his three favourites for the trophy and pointedly leaving out Nigeria's high-flying Super Eagles.
Deschamps Backs Traditional Powerhouses
Speaking to Morocco World News as the tournament hosted by Morocco enters the knockout phase, the French tactician listed the hosts, Egypt, and Cameroon as the leading contenders. Deschamps, 57, emphasised his respect for African football but stuck to what he called the continent's "usual powerhouses."
"The favourites are often the same teams," Deschamps stated. "It's like a World Cup, we always talk about the same nations. There can be surprises, of course, but the strongest African teams are there, with very, very good players who play for top clubs."
His selections boast impressive pedigrees: Egypt holds the record for most AFCON titles, Cameroon is renowned for physical dominance, and Morocco will benefit from significant home support. Notably, Deschamps' list also omitted the reigning champions, Senegal.
Nigeria's Stunning Group Stage Performance
However, the omission of Nigeria appears to ignore the most compelling form guide from the tournament's first round. The Super Eagles were one of only two teams, alongside Algeria, to achieve a perfect record in the group stage, winning all three matches.
Under coach Eric Chelle, who was named Best Coach of the Group Stage, Nigeria topped Group C with nine points. They secured victories against Tanzania (2-1), Tunisia (3-2), and Uganda (3-2). More impressively, the team scored eight goals, the highest tally in the group stage, with six different players getting on the scoresheet.
Forward Ademola Lookman emerged as a standout, finishing the group phase with two goals and two assists, making him the tournament's most productive player at that point and earning a spot in the official Team of the Group Stage.
A Point to Prove in the Knockouts
The Super Eagles, seeking a fourth AFCON title after previous wins in 1980, 1994, and 2013, now have extra motivation as they head into the Round of 16. Their next challenge is a match against Mozambique on January 3, 2026.
This snub from a respected figure like Deschamps, coupled with growing external belief—including from Jose Mourinho and statistical models like Opta's supercomputer which have upgraded Nigeria's chances—sets the stage for a compelling knockout run. The team's blend of tactical discipline and attacking freedom will be tested as they aim to prove that current form, not just historical reputation, dictates who lifts the trophy.
