AFCON 2025: Ex-Chelsea star Salomon Kalou explains why Nigeria can win the title 

Former Ivorian international Salomon Kalou has backed Nigeria to go one step further and win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off on Sunday in Morocco. 

The Super Eagles finished as runners-up in last year’s edition, which took place in Ivory Coast, but Kalou believes they have the squad to go all the way this time, even though they are not seen as the clear favourite. 

Speaking in an interview with Duelbits, the AFCON 2015 winner insists the Super Eagles' attack led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman gives them the edge, while also highlighting their squad depth. 

“Nigeria look very strong this year. With Victor Osimhen leading the line, they have one of the most feared strikers in world football,” Kalou said. 

“Add in the pace and creativity of Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, plus Wilfred Ndidi’s stability in midfield, and you see a team with balance and depth. Nigeria were runners-up last time, and with this mix of stars, they’ll believe they can go all the way, the former Chelsea star added.

Although Nigeria have the players to challenge for the trophy, they have not been impressive recently and will need to improve greatly if they are to win a fourth continental title in Morocco. 

The three-time African champions lost their recent warm-up game to Egypt and also failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after losing to DR Congo on penalties in the playoff final. 

Nonetheless, Eric Chelle’s men will aim to put on a show in Morocco as they chase a fourth AFCON title. 

The Super Eagles begin their quest against Tanzania next Wednesday before finishing their group stage campaign with games against Tunisia and Uganda, respectively.