Former Chelsea and Ivory Coast forward, Salomon Kalou, has identified Nigeria’s Super Eagles as one of the leading favourites to lift the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations trophy, citing the team’s quality, balance and growing belief on the continental stage.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Kalou praised the strength of the Nigerian squad, highlighting their attacking firepower and midfield stability as key assets that could drive them deep into the competition.
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According to the AFCON 2015 winner, the presence of Victor Osimhen at the forefront of the Super Eagles’ attack makes Nigeria a constant threat to any opponent. Kalou described the Napoli striker as one of the most feared forwards in world football, capable of deciding matches at the highest level.
Kalou also pointed to the pace and creativity provided by Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, noting that their ability to stretch defences and create chances gives Nigeria a dynamic edge in wide areas. In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi’s experience and defensive discipline were singled out as vital in maintaining balance within the team.
“Nigeria look very strong this year,” Kalou said. “They were runners-up last time, and with this mix of stars they’ll believe they can go all the way.”
While acknowledging traditional powerhouses such as Senegal and Egypt as likely contenders in the latter stages of the tournament, the former Chelsea winger revealed that Nigeria and hosts Ivory Coast stand out as the teams he would back to challenge for the title.
Kalou’s endorsement adds to the growing expectations surrounding the Super Eagles as they aim to build on their impressive runners-up finish at the last AFCON and push for a fourth continental crown in 2025.
