AFCON 2025: Top Players To Watch In Morocco

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is just days away from kicking off in Morocco, with the tournament set to run from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026. This marks the first time the event will span the Christmas and New Year period, bringing together 24 nations in a bid for continental glory. The world is poised for a month of thrilling matches, showcasing Africa’s elite talent on home soil for the hosts.

The previous edition in Ivory Coast delivered edge-of-your-seat drama and unearthed a new generation of stars, and expectations are sky-high for Morocco to deliver an unforgettable spectacle amid its preparations for co-hosting the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

Key Players to Watch at AFCON 2025:

As teams vie for the trophy, several standout performers could define the tournament. Here’s a spotlight on five must-watch talents, blending proven icons with emerging forces:

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)

Nigeria’s lethal forward enters the fray in scintillating form, having netted prolifically for Galatasaray in the Turkish Super Lig and UEFA Champions League this season. Often hailed as one of Africa’s top strikers, Osimhen’s explosive speed, aerial dominance, and clinical finishing make him a nightmare for defenses. Pundits see him as the driving force to propel the Super Eagles beyond the group stage and into a potential fourth title run—his eight goals in 22 prior AFCON appearances underscore his big-tournament pedigree.

Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

At 33, Liverpool’s evergreen winger remains Egypt’s talisman, now the all-time leading scorer in African World Cup qualifiers with 16 goals. Despite club frustrations, Salah’s razor-sharp intelligence, precise passing, and clutch scoring—evident in his nine goals across 15 internationals since 2023—position him as the Pharaohs’ go-to leader. With Egypt chasing a record-extending eighth crown, his composure in high-stakes moments could finally deliver that elusive AFCON triumph he’s craved.

Brahim Díaz (Morocco)

The hosts’ creative spark, Real Madrid’s Díaz makes his AFCON bow with flair to spare. Renowned for his silky dribbling, vision, and ability to slice through compact defenses, the 27-year-old is primed to orchestrate Morocco’s attacking symphony. As the Atlas Lions aim to leverage home advantage and build on their 2022 World Cup heroics, Díaz’s ingenuity in tight spaces could prove the difference in unlocking stubborn opponents during the group phase.

Carlos Baleba (Cameroon)

Brighton & Hove Albion’s dynamic midfielder embodies Cameroon’s youthful resurgence. At 21, Baleba fuses relentless energy, robust tackling, and elegant ball-playing to dominate the engine room—key to the Indomitable Lions’ robust qualification push. His seamless blend of physicality and technique positions him as a breakout candidate, potentially steering Cameroon toward a deeper knockout run and cementing his status among Africa’s rising midfield maestros.

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Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

Freshly crowned African Player of the Year, Paris Saint-Germain’s versatile right-back is the heartbeat of the host nation. Hakimi’s blistering pace, pinpoint crossing, and unyielding defensive nous—pivotal in PSG’s recent Champions League success—make him a game-changer on both flanks. As captain, his leadership and dual-threat prowess will be vital in fortifying Morocco’s backline while fueling counter-attacks, all eyes on him to inspire a first AFCON title since 1976.

Sadio Mané (Senegal)

As excitement builds toward the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Senegalese star Sadio Mané is once again attracting major attention as one of the top players expected to shine at the tournament. With his proven leadership, world-class talent, and unwavering consistency, the former African Footballer of the Year remains a central figure in Senegal’s quest for continental glory.

Mané has established himself as one of Africa’s most successful footballers of the modern era, delivering exceptional performances at club and national levels. His pace, creativity, and clinical finishing have made him a nightmare for defenders across the world. Beyond his technical brilliance, Mané is known for his resilience and ability to rise to the occasion in high-stakes matches—something Senegal will depend on heavily in 2025.