The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off today, Sunday, 9th January 2022 in Cameroon. It is the 33rd edition. The finals is scheduled for Sunday, 6th February 2022.
For the first time in the competition’s history, all 52 matches will feature the use of a Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
Although a total of 24 nations are in the competition, this article looks at five nations (teams) who are favorites to win the AFCON 2022.
1. Senegal
Senegal has a star-studded front line led by Liverpool’s Sadio Mane. Defensively, they boast of Chelsea’s Edouard Mendy, Kalidou Koulibaly of Napoli and host of other great players. They are likely to recover from their 1-0 defeat to Algeria in the 2019 AFCON finals and claim the title.
2. Algeria
The defending champions boast of one of the greatest squad in this year’s AFCON. Led by Manchester City’s Riyad Mahrez and forward Baghdad Bounedjah, the Algerians had a memorable 2019 run to their second AFCON crown. They are the second favorite to win the competition.
3. Ivory Coast
They boast of Eric Bailly of Manchester United, Arsenal’s Nicolas Pepe, Wilfred Zaha of Crystal Palace and other talented squad. Ivory Coast last won the competition in 2015 after beating Ghana on penalties. They are also favorites to win this year competition.
4. Egypt
: The Pharaohs of Egypt have won the tournament seven times and are the most successful team in the history of AFCON. In attack, they have arguably the best player in the world right now, Mohamed Salah. Given their history, they are also fourth favorite to win the trophy.
5. Cameroon
The Indomitable Lions, who last won the tournament in 2017, will be one of 24 nations looking to succeed Algeria as African champions. Hosting the competition also gives them the boost to win the tournament.
Team Cameroon is headed for a 20th AFCON participation and will be bidding for a sixth title.
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