Senegal won the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations by beating Egypt in the final in Cameroon.
Some of football’s biggest stars will showcase their skills when the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) gets under way in Ivory Coast on January 13.
While the timing of the tournament has upset elite European clubs, the presence of five African teams at the Qatar World Cup 2022 has proved that football in Africa is coming of age.
Record AFCON winners Egypt, led by their talismanic captain Mohamed Salah, will look for their eighth title. Morocco will hope their superb display at the last World Cup will translate into continental success, while Victor Osimhen will aim to replicate his club form for Nigeria.
Morocco
Morocco are the red-hot favourites after their historic run at the Qatar World Cup in 2022.
Senegal
Defending champions Senegal start the tournament on the heels of favorite Morocco.
Egypt
“I want to win the competition” was the clear message from Mohamed Salah about his ambitions at AFCON as he departed Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Nigeria
The Super Eagles have had their wings clipped of late – eliminated in a play-off for a place at the Qatar World Cup by rivals Ghana and falling at the first knockout hurdle at the 2022 AFCON.
Ivory Coast
The hosts cannot be ruled out as contenders but the decision not to select Galatasaray’s Wilfred Zaha in attack will hang heavily over the team if results go against the team.
