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Steve Blues

Chelsea and Ivory Coast legend Salomon Kalou on AFCON favourites, tournament's star power and the next generation of talent on display

In a wide-ranging blog interview, the former AFCON winner revealed his views on his favourites for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations tournament, which major stars to follow and which youngsters will be looking to announce themselves on the continental stage.

The 40-year-old former Ivory Coast international has been back in the limelight in recent weeks after being announced as an analyst for SuperSport's 2025 AFCON coverage and joining Duelbits as Football Ambassador for the tournament.

As part of his ambassador role with the online sports betting company, Kalou is being interviewed on a weekly blog post where he answers questions around his career and his views on the upcoming AFCON tournament. 

  • Africa Afcon fansBackpagepix

    What AFCON means to Africa?

    "AFCON is pride. It’s identity. For Africans, it’s more than football, it’s culture, it’s community, it’s history. Every match feels like a celebration of the continent itself," Kalou said.

    When asked what makes AFCON different to other international tournaments, "The atmosphere. The passion in the stadiums, the colors, the music, it’s unique.

    "AFCON carries the heartbeat of Africa, and that energy is unlike anything else in world football." 

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  • Mohamed Salah Egypt 2025Getty Images

    You recently suggested South Africa could go far in the tournament, are they your tip to win it, or are there others you think can challenge?

    "There are always many contenders at AFCON. Morocco as hosts are worthy favourites, but losing Hakimi is a big blow," Kalou said.

    "Egypt have Salah, but he hasn’t been at his usual level for Liverpool. Algeria look strong and balanced. 

    "Nigeria didn’t make the World Cup, but with Osimhen firing, plus Lookman, Iwobi, and Chukwueze all in form, they can beat anyone. It’s wide open, and that’s what makes AFCON so special," he concluded.

    When asked who his 'dark horse' for AFCON was, the former Chelsea star responded by saying, "I’ve said South Africa, and I’ll stick with Bafana Bafana. They’re great odds on Duelbits, and they have the spirit to shock people."

  • Seko Fofana Ivory Coast Guinea-Bissau Afcon 2023Getty

    What do Ivory Coast need to go all the way?

    "The midfield is very strong, Kessie, Sangare, Fofana. They’re hard to break down. Diomande at Sporting Lisbon is exceptional, and Diallo brings real attacking threat," he said.

    "There are positives everywhere, and I think we’ll go very close." 

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    Which players do you think will stand out most at this year’s tournament?

    "Everyone knows Salah, Osimhen, Mbeumo, Mané, Mahrez, all huge names," he said.

    "But Ayoub El Kaabi is having a fantastic season in Greece, Amad Diallo is a joy to watch, and Iliman Ndiaye is another really exciting talent.

    "Those are players I’d keep an eye on."

  • Lamine Camara, SenegalGetty

    Of the young talent that will be on show, who should we look out for?

    "AFCON always shines a light on the next generation. Lamine Camara with Senegal is only 20 but already looks like a leader in midfield," he said.

    "Oumar Diakite from Ivory Coast is another exciting prospect, fearless, creative, and someone who can make a difference. 

    "Amad Diallo is still young and developing, but he has the flair to light up games. And Iliman Ndiaye brings that spark for Senegal too," he added.

    "These are players who can use AFCON as a stage to announce themselves to the world." 

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