The African Cup of Nations (Afcon) begins this weekend, with the tournament set to be played over the festive period for the first time in its history.
Set to be hosted in Morocco, hosts will face outsiders Comoros on Sunday, 21 December, in the capital city of Rabat, with the match getting underway at 7pm UK time at a sold-out Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium.
Holders Ivory Coast are aiming to secure their third Afcon win in their history, having lifted the trophy in 2015 and 2013. They’ll face a stern challenge from Mo Salah and seven-time champions Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, and Nigeria. But who are the bookies’ favourites to win the competition?
Here is who the bookies are tipping to win the Afcon*.
*All odds are provided by SkyBet and are subject to change at any time. Please gamble responsibly.
5. Mali/Ivory Coast/Tunisia - 12/1
With stars such as Hamari Traoré, Yves Bissouma, and Amadou Haidara, Mali will hope to make an impact at the competition, while Ivory Coast enter the tournament as reigning champions. Tunisia have Celtic winger Sebastian Tounekti in their squad, and are expected to do well. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
6. Cameroon - 18/1
Five times AFCON champions, Cameroon are dark horses to win the tournament this time. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
7. South Africa - 40/1
Priced at 40/1, they are viewed as outsiders to win AFCON this year. | Middle East Images/AFP via Getty
8. DR Congo - 50/1
Despite being able to name English Premier League stars Noah Sadiki and Aaron Wan-Bissaka in their squad, the Congolese national team are priced as high as 50/1 to win the AFCON. | AFP via Getty Images