AFCON 2025: Supercomputer Predicts Tournament Winner Ahead of Blockbuster Quarterfinals
- Opta’s supercomputer has forecast the likely winner of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as the tournament heads into the quarter-finals
- Fans are set for a series of blockbuster ties, highlighted by hosts Morocco taking on five-time champions Cameroon
- Three nations, including defending champions Ivory Coast, have been handed less than a 10% chance of lifting the trophy
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Opta’s supercomputer has refreshed its projections for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following the conclusion of the round of 16, with eight heavyweight nations advancing to the quarter-finals.
Unlike previous tournaments where surprise packages stole the headlines, this year’s competition in Morocco has followed a familiar script. The continent’s established powers have largely held their nerve, ensuring the last eight is stacked with pedigree rather than fairy tales.
Source: Getty Images
Seven of the remaining teams have previously lifted the AFCON trophy, creating a rare concentration of continental royalty at this stage.
It promises an intense and unforgiving path to the final, where margins are expected to be razor-thin.
Record seven-time champions Egypt are still in contention, alongside five-time winners Cameroon and three-time champions Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, per Africa Soccer.
They are joined by former title holders Algeria and Senegal, while hosts Morocco continue to ride a wave of home support and growing belief.
Mali stands alone as the only quarter-finalist yet to win the competition. However, their consistent progress in recent editions and disciplined performances have earned them widespread respect, even as they chase a first historic crown.
Friday’s quarter-final action begins with a compelling West African showdown between Mali and Senegal, before attention shifts to the hosts as Morocco takes on Cameroon in an evening clash dripping with history.
Saturday raises the stakes even further, with Algeria facing Nigeria in a contest of tactical control against attacking firepower.
The final tie pits giants against giants as Egypt meets Côte d’Ivoire in a rematch of past classics, per Foot Africa.
Opta predicts who will win AFCON 2025
According to Opta’s supercomputer, Morocco remain favourites to lift the trophy, with a 22.52% chance of success.
Senegal follow at 17.64%, while Algeria and Egypt are close behind on 14.91% and 12.25% respectively. Nigeria, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon and Mali complete the rankings.
The bracket is now set. The winner of Mali versus Senegal will face whoever emerges from Egypt against Côte d’Ivoire, while Morocco or Cameroon will meet the victor of Algeria and Nigeria.
Source: Getty Images
Daniel Laryea earns VAR role at AFCON
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Daniel Nii Laryea has earned another major vote of confidence after being handed a key role at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), reinforcing his growing reputation on the continental stage.
Laryea was appointed as the lead Video Assistant Referee for the quarter-final showdown between Morocco and Cameroon, scheduled for Friday, January 9, 2026.
Source: YEN.com.gh
