The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is about to kick off, and as always, the tournament arrives filled with expectations, pedigree, and long-held assumptions ready to be challenged. With historic national teams, emerging contenders, and group stages packed with competitive intrigue, the opening phase will serve as the first true test of which sides are genuinely prepared to fight for the title in Morocco.

Remember that you can enjoy every single match of AFCON 2025 live on beIN Sports starting December 21.

Group A – Morocco Set the Standard at Home

Group A: Morocco, Mali, Zambia, Comoros

As tournament hosts, Morocco enter AFCON 2025 as clear favorites to finish top of Group A. Walid Regragui’s side combine tactical discipline, physical dominance, and elite-level experience, with a squad that includes players competing at the highest level in Europe. Home advantage, depth, and consistency make the Atlas Lions the team everyone else is chasing. Mali have the structure to challenge, but Morocco’s ceiling places them firmly ahead on paper.

Group B – Egypt’s Experience Still Carries Weight

Group B: Egypt, South Africa, Angola, Zimbabwe

Egypt remain the most likely group winners, largely because AFCON history consistently favors teams that know how to manage tournament pressure. With Mohamed Salah leading the line and a squad accustomed to deep runs, the Pharaohs have the pedigree to navigate tight group matches. South Africa’s recent stability makes them competitive, while Angola could complicate things — but Egypt’s experience gives them the edge for first place.

Group C – Nigeria’s Talent Tips the Balance

Group C: Nigeria, Tunisia, Tanzania, Uganda

On pure talent, Nigeria stand out as favorites to top Group C. With Victor Osimhen as the focal point and a roster packed with athleticism and attacking power, the Super Eagles possess more individual match-winners than their rivals. Tunisia’s ability to grind out results keeps them close, but Nigeria’s upside and explosiveness make them the most likely group leaders.

Group D – Senegal’s Balance Makes Them the Team to Beat

Group D: Senegal, DR Congo, Benin, Botswana

Senegal enter Group D as strong favorites to finish first thanks to their blend of physicality, tactical organization, and experience in major tournaments. Even after coaching changes, the core of this squad remains intact, with depth across all lines. DR Congo’s athletic profile could test them, but Senegal’s consistency over 90 minutes gives them a clear advantage.

Group E – Algeria Look Poised to Reassert Control

Group E: Algeria, Burkina Faso, Equatorial Guinea, Sudan

Despite recent AFCON disappointments, Algeria still appear best positioned to top Group E. With Riyad Mahrez pulling the strings and a squad rich in technical quality, they have the tools to control games and manage group-stage scenarios. Burkina Faso’s tournament know-how keeps the group competitive, but Algeria’s talent level remains superior.

Group F – Ivory Coast Hold the Edge in a Heavyweight Group

Group F: Ivory Coast, Cameroon, Gabon, Mozambique

Group F may be the most volatile, but Ivory Coast enter as slight favorites to finish first. As reigning champions, they bring confidence, attacking depth, and a proven ability to survive adversity. Cameroon’s talent is undeniable, but ongoing instability clouds their outlook, while Gabon could push the group to the final matchday. On balance, Ivory Coast still look strongest on paper.

When Numbers Meet Reality

On paper, the favorites are clear. Squad depth, rankings, experience, and recent form all point toward Morocco, Egypt, Nigeria, Senegal, Algeria, and Ivory Coast as the most likely group winners at AFCON 2025.

But AFCON has never been decided by spreadsheets alone. Once the ball starts rolling, momentum shifts, pressure builds, and surprises emerge. The numbers may be set — but African football has a long tradition of rewriting expectations when it matters most.

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