Historically, African giants Egypt, Cameroon, Ghana, Ivory Coast, and Nigeria have dominated AFCON, securing 22 of 34 titles. Egypt achieved a record three consecutive victories from 2006 to 2010, powered by legends like Essam El Hadary and Mohamed Aboutreika. Surprisingly, the upcoming Moroccan tournament will miss four-time winners Ghana and Cape Verde following disastrous qualifying campaigns.
Hosts Morocco are the overwhelming favourites, desperate to erase the memory of their recent last-16 exit. Their main rivals include Nigeria and Cameroon, seeking redemption after missing the 2026 World Cup, plus challengers Egypt and Senegal. Meanwhile, Mali stands out as a dangerous dark horse, with coach Tom Saintfiet eyeing the final prize.
Team news focuses on Moroccan captain Achraf Hakimi, whom coach Walid Regragui hopes will recover from an ankle sprain to face Comoros. Although eight Player of the Year nominees are present, injured Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa and eliminated Serhou Guirassy are, regrettably, confirmed absentees.