Walid Regragui, mastermind behind the stunning success of 2022 World Cup semi-finalists Morocco, says "at least 10 teams can win the Africa Cup of Nations" in the Ivory Coast from January 13.
While his Atlas Lions are obviously among the contenders for the most prized trophy in African football, the 48-year-old former international full-back did not name the others.
Two years ago, Morocco became the first African or Arab country and only the third outside Europe or South America to reach the penultimate stage of the global showpiece.
Impressive champions in 2019 but flops in 2022 when they crashed out after the first round, Riyad Mahrez-inspired Algeria are widely regarded as one of the top five challengers.
Coach Djamel Belmadi has chosen a mix of old and new faces, including 2019 final match-winner Baghdad Bounedjah as the Desert Foxes chase a third title. The Stallions Burkina Faso are missing from most lists of favourites, but in their last four appearances from 2013 they can boast of second, third and fourth-place finishes. The form of the Indomitable Lions Cameroon has been consistently unpredictable since former star Rigobert Song became coach early last year after they finished third as hosts of the last Cup of Nations. The form of Liverpool star Mohamed Salah ensures the Pharaohs will be among the favourites as they chase a record-extending eighth title with an experienced squad.
With home advantage comes high expectations, and how the Elephants Ivory Coast handle the inevitable pressure will be closely watched as the country pursues a third title.
After defeating Belgium, then eliminating Spain and Portugal at the World Cup, Morocco are the favourites of many to win a second African title, 48 years after last achieving the feat.
