The 34th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off this Saturday, January 13, in Ivory Coast. Three teams stand out as favorites to win the competition: Morocco, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.
Morocco, World Cup Semifinalists
Morocco is the first African country to reach the semifinals of the World Cup since 2010. The Atlas Lions have a strong team, with experienced players like Achraf Hakimi, Sofiane Boufal, and Youssef En-Nesyri.
Senegal, Defending Champions
Senegal is the defending champion and has a young and talented team, led by Sadio Mané. The Lions of Teranga won the AFCON in 2022 and want to confirm their status as favorites.
Ivory Coast, Host Nation
Ivory Coast is the host nation for the AFCON and has a competitive team, with players like Seko Fofana, Franck Kessié, and Sébastien Haller. The Elephants will aim to win the AFCON for the first time since 2006.
Other Teams Can Challenge
Behind these three favorites, other teams can create surprises, such as Egypt, Algeria, or Tunisia. Egypt is the most successful nation in the AFCON, with seven victories, and always has a competitive team, with Mohamed Salah as leader.
Algeria and Tunisia are two experienced teams that have already won the AFCON. Both teams are in transition, but they still have players who can make a difference.
Mali, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Burkina Faso are also teams to watch. Mali has a very talented midfield, the Democratic Republic of Congo has a good mix of experience and youth, and Burkina Faso is a regular outsider in the AFCON.
The 2024 AFCON promises to be exciting and open. Three teams stand out as favorites, but other teams can create surprises.
Keywords: AFCON 2024, Morocco, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Mali, Democratic Republic of Congo, Burkina Faso, football, Africa, sports, competition, championship.
