As excitement builds for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled for December next year, former Ghanaian football star Asamoah Gyan has shared his top predictions for who could lift the trophy. Speaking at the CAF Awards in Morocco, the legendary striker named Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and host nation Morocco as the strongest favourites heading into the tournament.

Gyan noted that the competition will feature several African football heavyweights, but the three countries he mentioned have shown exceptional form in recent years. He expressed disappointment that Ghana failed to qualify, a major blow for a nation with a deep football history. However, he added that the Black Stars are hopeful as they look forward to participating in the upcoming World Cup.

Reflecting on past performances, Gyan praised Nigeria for their impressive run at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, where the Super Eagles reached the finals but narrowly lost 2–1 to the hosts, Ivory Coast. He also acknowledged the Elephants’ resilience and Morocco’s continued rise as a powerhouse on the continent.

“Nigeria did really well; they came very close last time. Ivory Coast also impressed, and Morocco is consistently strong,” he said. “These three—Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Morocco—are my favourites for AFCON 2025.”

With the tournament drawing nearer, Gyan’s predictions have sparked fresh conversations among football fans across the continent, many of whom are eager to see whether one of his picks will indeed lift the coveted trophy.