Hugo Broos Tips Morocco For AFCON Glory, Troussier Names Eight Title Contenders

South Africa head coach Hugo Broos has played down the chances of his own side and traditional heavyweights such as Nigeria and defending champions Ivory Coast, tipping hosts Morocco as the leading favourites for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Hugo Broos believes the Atlas Lions have both the quality and the advantage of home support to go all the way when the tournament gets underway in January 2026.

Speaking about the 2025 AFCON, Broos stated (via Flashscore): “It’s always very dangerous to put yourself [South Africa] as a favourite.

“The tournament this year will be tougher than the last one held in the Ivory Coast. I think if you can call a favourite, it’s Morocco.

“They [Morocco] are a very good team and playing at home.”

Morocco have already made a confident start, beating Comoros 2-0 in their opening fixture. That result leaves them top of Group A on three points, with matches against Zambia and Mali to come.

Broos’ view, however, is not universally shared. Former Nigeria coach Philippe Troussier has cast the net wider, naming eight countries he believes are capable of lifting the trophy.

Speaking to Filgoal, Troussier said: “I’m confident that the AFCON will be strong and competitive.

“Morocco leads [as the number one favourite], along with the Ivory Coast, Senegal, Algeria, South Africa, Cameroon, Nigeria, and Egypt.”

Troussier, 70, has coached across the continent, with spells in charge of Morocco, Burkina Faso, Ivory Coast, Nigeria and South Africa.