AFCON 2025: Team like Nigeria - Moroccan legend tips Super Eagles as strong title contender

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have received a major vote of confidence ahead of the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with Moroccan football legend Mustapha El Haddaoui identifying them as one of the teams capable of going all the way.

Nigeria booked their place in the Round of 16 after a flawless group-stage campaign, finishing top of Group C with nine points.

The Super Eagles opened their tournament with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania before edging Tunisia and Uganda by identical 3-2 scorelines. They are now set to face Mozambique in the Round of 16.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with CAFonline.com, El Haddaoui, the only Moroccan footballer to feature at both the 1986 and 1994 FIFA World Cups, said he expects the AFCON 2025 champion to emerge from the continent’s traditional powerhouses.

He said, “I don’t think the surprise will come from an average or unknown team. I believe the champion will be one of the big teams, led by an experienced coach who knows how to manage situations and has top-quality players at his disposal.”

The former Moroccan international listed Nigeria among a strong group of favorites, highlighting the depth and pedigree of Africa’s elite nations.

“Teams like Algeria, Senegal, Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, DR Congo, and Cameroon all have the potential to go far in the competition,” he noted.

El Haddaoui also praised the early performances of the tournament’s heavyweights, including the Super Eagles, for setting a high standard during the group phase.

He added, “Teams like Morocco, Algeria, Cameroon, Egypt, Senegal, and Nigeria have all made strong starts. Each of these teams has something to say in this competition, which will make the upcoming rounds exciting and intense.”

Assessing the overall quality of AFCON 2025 so far, the Moroccan icon pointed to a clear contrast between established contenders and emerging sides.

“Some matches were extreme, while others were more average, depending on the strength of the teams involved. The stronger teams and title contenders have deep squads, which makes their matches more competitive,” he explained.