Former Chelsea forward Salomon Kalou has cast doubt on Ivory Coast’s chances of defending their Africa Cup of Nations crown, despite the Elephants entering the tournament as reigning champions after their triumph on home soil in 2023.

Kalou, who played a pivotal role in Ivory Coast’s 2015 AFCON victory over Ghana in Equatorial Guinea, believes the current squad faces a tougher path in Morocco.

Kalou’s Key Remarks

On Nigeria’s strength:

“Nigeria look very strong this year. With Victor Osimhen leading the line, they have one of the most feared strikers in world football. Add in the pace and creativity of Ademola Lookman and Samuel Chukwueze, plus Wilfred Ndidi’s stability in midfield, and you see a team with balance and depth.”

On contenders:

“Nigeria were runners‑up last time, and with this mix of stars they’ll believe they can go all the way. I do think Ivory Coast or Nigeria are the ones I’d put my money on.”

On top scorer race

“Victor Osimhen is the headline act… If I had to pick one name for this tournament to score the most goals, it’s Victor Osimhen. He’s in incredible form, and Nigeria’s group gives him the chance to start fast.”

Tournament Context


  • Ivory Coast’s Group F: Cameroon (five-time winners), Mozambique, Gabon.

  • Fixtures:

    • Dec 24 – vs Mozambique

    • Dec 28 – vs Cameroon

    • Dec 31 – vs Gabon

  • Dates: December 21, 2025 – January 18, 2026.

Kalou’s comments highlight the pressure on Ivory Coast as defending champions while pointing to Nigeria’s depth and firepower as a major threat. His backing of Victor Osimhen as potential top scorer underscores the striker’s current form and ability to dominate early fixtures against Tanzania and Uganda.