For Super Eagles to win AFCON 2025, they need to avoid my country – Ex-Chelsea star

The Super Eagles of Nigeria were denied a fourth AFCON title at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations after suffering a 2-1 defeat to hosts Côte d’Ivoire….

Former Chelsea forward Salomon Kalou has issued a light-hearted warning to the Super Eagles of Nigeria ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The Ivorian former professional footballer believes that their path to winning this year's AFCON could once again be blocked by the reigning champions, the Ivory Coast.

Kalou remarked during a live segment on SuperSport, where he reacted to Stanley Nwabali’s recent declaration that Nigeria are confident of clinching the AFCON title next year.

Nigeria came agonisingly close to continental glory at the 2023 AFCON, held in Côte d’Ivoire, but fell short in the final after a 2-1 defeat to the hosts in Abidjan.

Goals from Franck Kessié and Sébastien Haller overturned William Troost-Ekong’s first-half header to hand the Elephants their third continental crown.

Nwabali, who was one of Nigeria’s standout performers during the tournament, said while featuring on the same program that the painful defeat has fuelled a stronger determination within the squad as they prepare for the next edition, set to take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

The Super Eagles aren't going to #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 to participate

Stanley Nwabali gives his early predictions for the 2025 edition #SSDiski | #SSFootball pic.twitter.com/lriw2C5yX4

— SuperSport Football ⚽️ (@SSFootball) November 6, 2025

Solomon Kalou: What The Former Chelsea Star Said

However, Kalou, who is a key member of the Ivory Coast’s 2015 AFCON-winning squad, playfully hinted that the Super Eagles would need to steer clear of his country if they hope to lift the trophy this time.

“For Nigeria to win, maybe they need to avoid Ivory Coast,” Kalou said with a smile.

Reflecting on the Ivory Coast’s emotional home triumph, the 40-year-old described the experience as unforgettable.

“It is a great feeling to win, especially when you win at home, in front of your people, the whole stadium. I think no feeling can beat that,” he added.

The Super Eagles will begin their AFCON 2025 campaign in Group C, where they face Tunisia, Uganda, and Tanzania, as they look to secure a record-equaling fourth continental title.

Nigeria, the Ivory Coast, and a few others have been tipped as favourites to win the 2025 edition of the AFCON tournament. Fans may yet be treated to another chapter of an exciting football event.