AFCON 2025: Didier Deschamps name Top 3 Favourites team

France Coach Backs Morocco, Egypt and Cameroon for 2025 AFCON Glory

France national team head coach Didier Deschamps has sparked debate ahead of AFCON 2025 by naming Morocco, Egypt, and Cameroon as his top three favourites to win the tournament — notably leaving out the Nigeria Super Eagles.

Deschamps, reflecting on historical pedigree and squad strength, selected Morocco, Egypt, and Cameroon as the teams most likely to lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy hosted in Morocco later this year.

Despite Nigeria’s dominant showing in the group phase — winning all three matches and scoring eight goals — the Super Eagles did not make Deschamps’ top contenders list.

This choice has divided football analysts and supporters, with many arguing that Nigeria’s form should not be overlooked.

Under intense competition, Nigeria topped Group C with an impressive clean slate of wins against Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda, showcasing attacking firepower and tactical discipline.

While some pundits expected the Super Eagles to be among the favourites — especially after their perfect group stage performance — Deschamps’ stance emphasises experience and historical consistency over recent results.

Social media platforms and sports forums quickly reacted to Deschamps’ comments. Many Nigerian fans expressed frustration, arguing that Nigeria’s current form and squad depth make them strong title contenders. Others believe that the coach’s traditionalist viewpoint mirrors cautious respect for teams with long-standing continental success.

As the tournament progresses into the knockout stages:

The Super Eagles remain a threat to all challengers.
Morocco, Egypt, and Cameroon now carry the added weight of expectation.
The debate highlights a classic football narrative: form vs pedigree.

Didier Deschamps’ bold picks have reignited discussions about Nigeria’s chances at AFCON 2025, igniting passion and controversy in equal measure. Whether the Super Eagles can prove the doubters wrong remains one of the tournament’s most compelling storylines.