Are Morocco the favourites—and who else is in the conversation? Salah takes conservative approach to Egypt’s chances
Mohamed Salah has played down Egypt’s chances of being labelled favourites at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, subtly shifting attention toward other contenders—with hosts Morocco firmly among them.
Speaking after Egypt’s hard-fought 3–1 extra-time victory over Benin in the Round of 16, Salah was candid when asked about Egypt’s status in the tournament.
“We are not the favorites, because most of the players in the Egypt national team play in the domestic league. I won’t say more than that,” Salah said.
His comments came moments after he sealed qualification with the decisive third goal in extra time, capping a strong individual display that underlined his importance to the Pharaohs.
Benin proved stubborn opposition, forcing Egypt to dig deep before their quality told. Marwan Attia broke the deadlock, Yasser Ibrahim restored the lead after Jodel Dossou equaled to force extra time. And when Benin threatened a late comeback, Salah stepped up to end the contest with composure.
It was another milestone night for the Liverpool star. Salah now has three goals at AFCON 2025, moving him to within touching distance of Egyptian history. He remains just two goals shy of Hossam Hassan’s all-time national team record of 68 goals, and with 11 AFCON finals goals, he is also two behind Hassan El-Shazly in Egypt’s top scoring chart on the continental showpiece.
Morocco lead the favourites pack
While Salah deflects expectations from Egypt, many observers see Morocco as the team to beat. Playing on home soil, the Atlas Lions boast a deep squad packed with European-based talent, tactical cohesion, and the confidence drawn from their historic World Cup run in 2022.
Alongside Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast are widely considered part of a strong favourites group—each blending elite overseas stars with tournament experience.
Egypt, despite their pedigree as the most decorated side at the AFCON with 7 titles, are viewed more as seasoned outsiders relying on resilience, structure, and moments of brilliance from Salah this time round.
Salah’s words reflect a broader theme: Egypt are comfortable operating without the favourites tag. Their path forward will be defined less by flair and more by discipline, efficiency, and leadership—areas where they traditionally excel.
As the tournament reaches its decisive stages, the question remains open. Morocco may carry expectation, others may carry star power, but Egypt, led by a relentlessly driven Salah continue to carry belief.
And at AFCON, that has often been enough.