Nigeria to win it all! AFCON predictions!

When it comes to identifying the underdogs or dark horses in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the spotlight turns to a team that might fit the Cinderella story – Nigeria. Sporting odds of 11 to 1, they stand as a formidable force despite the unfortunate absence of their star player, Boniface. With the best attacker in Africa, Victor Osimhen and a solid midfield featuring talents like Wilfrid Ndidi and Alex Iwobi, Nigeria presents a robust team ready for competition.

Comparing them to powerhouses like Senegal and Morocco, one might hesitate to declare Nigeria superior. However, should they emerge victorious in their group, a potential clash with Senegal or Morocco may only happen in the semifinals. The preference leans towards Senegal, although Morocco, having maintained their World Cup form, could be a strong contender. The only concerns arise around players like Amrabat and Ounahi, who seem to have somewhat faltered since their standout performances in the World Cup.

Shifting focus to players based in Saudi Arabia, a curiosity arises regarding their fitness and skill levels compared to their European counterparts. The question lingers: Could the less competitive nature of the Saudi Arabian league make these players fresher and potentially more impactful in the tournament? While there's uncertainty around a possible decline, the perspective suggests that a less strenuous schedule may keep these players in prime condition for the competition.

As the tournament approaches, key players such as Sadio Mane draw attention, especially those plying their trade in Saudi Arabia. The debate revolves around whether their skills and fitness can match the European standards, with the possibility of a decline due to the less competitive nature of the Saudi Arabian league. Yet, a counterargument suggests that the reduced intensity might render these players fresher and more geared up for the tournament.

In terms of favourites, Senegal, Morocco, and the intriguing inclusion of Egypt come to mind. Mohamed Salah, despite being a crucial element for Egypt, raises doubts about his team's overall strength. Among the players to watch, Mohammed Kudus stands out, having impressed with two goals in the World Cup against South Korea. Plying his trade successfully at West Ham, Kudus is an enticing bet at +4000 to 1 to be the top scorer, making him a promising prospect in the tournament.

Among the dark horses, Ghana emerges as a favourite for many enthusiasts, holding the potential to go the distance. The excitement builds as the tournament approaches, with these teams and players setting the stage for a captivating and unpredictable football spectacle.