Benni McCarthy ‘Questions’ CAF Awards Shortlist After Amad Diallo Snub

Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy has said Morocco are his favorites to lift the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 title, and was "shocked Ivory Coast winger Amad Diallo" was not included in the nominees for the CAF Men's Player of the Year.

The former South Africa striker, who was on the touchline during Kenya' last 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ivory Coast, believes that the hosts and the Elephants both possess the quality to shine in the upcoming continental spectacle.

McCarthy, closely following the progress of African players both in Europe and elsewhere, was quick to sing the praise of the resurgence of Moroccan football at all age grades.

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The 46-year-old tactician, known for his blunt opinions, observed that Morocco's prowess and home ground factor might render them favourites to win the tournament next year.

His words also had a hint of criticism directed at CAF's choice of players, specifically the lack of young stars such as Manchester United winger Amad Diallo.

“In qualifying, I faced Ivory Coast once and I think they’ve got a really good squad. They have decent players. They’ve got Amad Diallo, as well, as part of their team. They look really strong, they look good, and they could have a say in this African Nations Cup,” McCarthy told Best Betting Sites.

McCarthy highlighted Morocco’s depth and the nation’s remarkable football development, pointing to their youth teams’ achievements as evidence of a bright future.

“When you look on paper and you see the strength and depth in each squad, I’m leaning more towards the host, Morocco. I think Morocco is a formidable squad. You know, they’re strong and they’ll have the backing of all the fans, the passionate Moroccan fans that will fill the stadiums for every match. I think the hosts Morocco; it looks like they could take it,” he added.

The South African tactician further lauded Morocco’s continued rise across all footballing categories. 

Their under-20 national team’s appearance in the World Cup final in Chile and the Olympic team’s run to the semi-finals were, in his view, proof of long-term planning and investment.

“And if you look now in modern-day football, Morocco’s under-20 national team is in the final at the Under-20 World Cup in Chile. They’ve just reached the final. So the trajectory of Moroccan football is really on the up. The Olympic team got into the semi-final of the Olympics. There’s something that Morocco is really doing well. Morocco will be my favourites to win the tournament,” McCarthy concluded.