Ellili names 6 favorites for AFCON... and leaves out the Carthage Eagles!

Africa 03 September 2025 at 12:01

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

Former Club Africain and ES Sétif coach Chiheb Ellili has delivered his analysis on the teams best equipped to win the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled in Morocco from December 21, 2025 to January 18, 2026.

Ellili leaves out the Carthage Eagles and names 6 favorites for AFCON

In an interview with Al-Ain Sports, the Tunisian tactician stated that Tunisia is not among the serious contenders for the title, pointing to the average level of its Europe-based internationals and the decline of local players.

However, Ellili named six nations capable of challenging for the trophy: Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt, as well as Senegal, Nigeria, and Cameroon.

On an individual note, he placed Moroccan star Achraf Hakimi among the top favorites to win the African Ballon d'Or, praising his high-level performances with Paris Saint-Germain.

Reflecting on his own career, Ellili recalled his beginnings in the lower divisions before moving up to manage prestigious clubs, collecting major trophies along the way, including a Tunisian Cup with Club Africain and a Jordan Cup with Al-Jazira.

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