AFCON 2023: Former Footballer and Renowned Radio Host Fred Arocho Makes Bold Prediction

• Popular Kenyan radio host Fred Arocho has made a bold AFCON prediction
• The former player tips Senegal to retain the trophy in Côte d'Ivoire
• The Lions of Teranga boast arguably one the best squads in the tournament

As the African Cup of Nations approaches, predictions are flowing in from notable figures in the football realm.

Set to unfold in six stadiums across five cities, including brand-new constructions in Korhogo, San Pedro, and Yamoussoukro, the tournament has garnered global attention.

Among those offering insights is Fred Arocho, a well-known Kenyan radio host and former player.

In an exclusive interview with Sports Brief, Arocho confidently revealed his pick for the tournament's winner in Côte d'Ivoire.

"I think Senegal is going to win. They have a very good squad, and I believe they will retain the trophy,” he said.

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Arocho, a former KCB player, attributes his prediction to the Lions of Teranga quality squad, stressing their capability to retain the coveted trophy.

"They have a very good squad, and they can retain it," he added.

Beyond his radio hosting fame, Arocho has a notable football background, having played for now-defunct second-division sides ICDC FC and NSSF FC, as reported by Michezo Afrika.

After completing his secondary education, Arocho's exceptional performance in the defensive line attracted interest from clubs.

His journey took him back to his native Awendo in Migori County, where he played for Sony Sugar for one and a half seasons before joining Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB).

Arocho was a crucial part of the squad that contributed to KCB's promotion to the Kenya Premier League (KPL) in 1997.

The reigning African champions Senegal have been grouped alongside Guinea, Gambia and Cameroon in the tournament, with their first match, a showdown with The Scorpions, scheduled for Monday, January 15, 2024, at the Stade Charles Konan Banny de Yamoussoukro (Charles Konan Banny Stadium).

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The other stadiums include the Olympic Stadium of Ebimpe, Peace Stadium, Laurent Pokou Stadium, the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium and the Stadium of Korhogo, as reported on Punch Nigeria.

Francis Kimanzi prediction

Sports Brief previously reported when Former Harambee Stars head coach, Francis Kimanzi, made his prediction for the outcome of the AFCON 2023.

Kimanzi also picked Senegal as his favourite team to win the tournament.

He led the Harambee Stars in three different spells, including 2008 and 2011, before parting ways with the Football Kenya Federation (FKF).