“Nigeria has got a card to play” – Ex-Arsenal defender Djourou predicts four teams to win AFCON 2025

Former Arsenal defender and ex-Switzerland international Johan Djourou has tipped Nigeria as one of four strong contenders to lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The Abidjan-born, who is “100 per cent” African, described the 2013 AFCON champions as a side with a genuine card to play in the 35th edition of the biennial tournament.

Speaking exclusively to Soccernet.ng on the sidelines of AFCON 2025 in Morocco, the former centre-back praised the growth of African football and listed Nigeria, Morocco, Ivory Coast and Senegal as the teams best equipped to go all the way.

Djourou: Ex-Arsenal impressed by AFCON’s growth

Djourou, who also has close ties to the Ivory Coast, shared his positive impressions of the competition, noting the steady progress of African nations on both the continental and global stages.

“I think it’s very good,” Djourou said to Soccernet.ng. “I had the chance to be a fan of the one in Ivory Coast because that’s where I’m from as well, and I thought it was a great success. African nations are progressing very well.”

He added that AFCON’s increasing competitiveness is reflected in the number of African teams qualifying for the FIFA World Cup, while also praising Morocco’s hosting of the current tournament.

“The vibe in Ivory Coast was a bit different from here in Morocco, the weather as well, but Morocco are really doing well. It started well, so hopefully it keeps going that way.”

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Nigeria, Morocco, Ivory Coast and Senegal tipped

When asked to name his favourites for the title, Djourou admitted the decision was far from straightforward but insisted Nigeria remain firmly in the mix.

“It’s tough,” he said. “Morocco at home will be tricky. I think Nigeria has got a card to play. Ivory Coast as defending champions as well. Senegal are a very strong team.”

While acknowledging the Super Eagles’ quality, Djourou ultimately leaned towards recent winners and hosts as marginal favourites.

“The ones most equipped to win it, I would say Morocco and Ivory Coast because they just won it,” he concluded.

The Super Eagles of Nigeria, however, continue to table their credentials with commanding performances at AFCON 2025. This confirms Djourou’s words that the Super Eagles remain a serious threat in the race for the title.