Can Côte d’Ivoire Defend Their AFCON Title in Morocco 2025?
When Côte d’Ivoire triumphed at AFCON 2024, few predicted they would lift the trophy — especially after a shaky group stage. Yet their resilience, tactical discipline, and home support created one of the most thrilling comebacks in African football history.
Now, the question looms: Can the Elephants do it again in Morocco 2025? Defending an AFCON title has proven historically difficult. With new contenders rising and Côte d’Ivoire playing away from home, the challenge will be tougher — but not impossible.
Let’s examine the factors that will define their chances.
What Favors Côte d’Ivoire in 2025
Despite the high-pressure nature of title defense, Côte d’Ivoire carries significant advantages into the next tournament:
Key Strengths Heading Into AFCON 2025
- Mature Squad Core:
Many key players are in their prime — Sangaré, Fofana, Kessié, Haller — with tournament experience under their belts. - Emerse Faé’s Tactical Identity:
After winning as interim coach, Faé has earned the full-time role. His ability to switch formations mid-match was a major asset in 2024. - Young Talent Integration:
Players like Simon Adingra and Ousmane Diomandé bring speed, hunger, and a new dimension to the team. - Winning Culture Rebuilt:
After a decade without major silverware, the team now believes again. That confidence fuels consistency. - Depth Across Positions:
Unlike many African squads that rely on a single star, Côte d’Ivoire boasts strength in every line — defense, midfield, and attack.
Obstacles to a Repeat Victory
However, repeating a title run in a foreign country presents its own unique challenges — especially in a place like Morocco, where North African teams will thrive.
Major Challenges Ahead:
- No Home Advantage:
The crowd and energy of 2024 won’t be there. Hostile atmospheres may test mental resilience. - Tactical Adaptation Required:
Teams have studied Faé’s 2024 tactics. New wrinkles and unpredictability will be necessary. - Injury Risk & Fatigue:
With many Ivorian players competing in top European leagues, fatigue by late 2025 is a real concern. - Rise of Contenders:
Morocco (home team), Senegal (redemption arc), Nigeria (talent overload), and Algeria (veteran leadership) all look strong. - Weight of Expectations:
Being the defending champion comes with pressure — especially when things start to go wrong.
Key Players to Watch in Morocco 2025
Côte d’Ivoire’s success may hinge on a few standout performers rising to the occasion once again.
- Franck Kessié: Midfield anchor with big-match experience.
- Seko Fofana: Ball-carrying powerhouse, transition expert.
- Simon Adingra: Breakout winger who can win games solo.
- Jean Michaël Seri: Tempo controller, leader in tough moments.
- Ousmane Diomandé: Defensive leader of the next generation.
If these players stay fit and in form, Côte d’Ivoire will remain one of the most dangerous squads on the continent.
What Must Happen for a Title Defense?
To win AFCON 2025, Côte d’Ivoire must go beyond just relying on their past glory. Here’s what needs to be done:
- Expand Tactical Flexibility
Faé must add new ideas — perhaps a back-three system or a high pressing variant — to surprise opponents. - Maximize Bench Impact
Late substitutions and squad rotation will matter more in Morocco’s climate and tight schedule. - Mental Resilience on the Road
Without home fans, the team must self-motivate and stay composed in high-pressure knockout games. - Maintain Player Fitness
Proper conditioning and rest management during club seasons will be critical. - Set-Piece Sharpness
Côte d’Ivoire lacked consistent threat from corners and free kicks in 2024. This area must improve.
Can They Do It?
Yes — but it won’t be easy.
Côte d’Ivoire has the tools, the talent, and the coaching staff to win again. But a title defense in AFCON is rare for a reason: hunger fades, opponents adapt, and pressure mounts.
Still, if any squad in recent African history has the balance and belief to repeat, it’s this one.
