The Athletic FC Podcast AFCON 2025: 'Fired up' Salah, favourites and surprise packages
13 snips
Dec 17, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, football journalist Simon Hughes shares tactical insights and highlights the unique allure of AFCON. Football reporter Jay Harris delves into Morocco’s home advantage and the challenges faced by Nigeria amidst turmoil. Former Ghana manager Chris Hughton offers firsthand experiences managing at the tournament and discusses the significance of dual-nationality players. With excitement brewing for AFCON 2025, the team weighs in on favorites like Morocco and dark horses such as South Africa.
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Why AFCON Matters More Than It Seems
- AFCON holds outsized importance because every African nation believes it can win and World Cup success has been limited.
- That belief gives the tournament a unique rhythm and storytelling potential compared with other internationals.
AFCON's Unpredictable Drama
- Jay Harris recalls AFCON's community and the memorable characters and moments he encountered in Cote d'Ivoire.
- He cites Emiliano Nsue's topscorer saga as an example of the tournament's unpredictable drama.
Visibility Fuels Growing Interest
- Broader UK visibility via Channel 4 will boost AFCON's audience and engagement this edition.
- Increased exposure matters because more Premier League players' involvement draws club fans to the tournament.