The 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will kick off on December 21, 2025, in Morocco, with the final taking place in Rabat on January 18, 2026. As usual, the tournament will feature a star-studded lineup, with teams vying for glory across the continent. While the hosts Morocco will be hoping to secure their first AFCON title since 1976, Egypt, led by Mohamed Salah, will aim for their first trophy since 2010. As the competition unfolds, we will see emerging talent and established stars striving to leave their mark on the tournament.
While much attention will be given to well-known names like Salah and Hakimi, there are several players who are poised to have standout performances. Here’s a look at six players to keep an eye on in Afcon 2025, whose contributions could prove pivotal in shaping the tournament.
1. Azzedine Ounahi (Midfielder, Morocco)
Club: Girona (Spain)
Age: 25
Azzedine Ounahi has come a long way since his breakthrough performances during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The talented midfielder, who helped Morocco reach the semi-finals in an unforgettable run, has established himself as a key figure in the Atlas Lions’ midfield.
Ounahi, a product of Morocco’s Mohammed VI Academy, struggled to find his footing in the early stages of his career after moving to Olympique Marseille. However, since his move to Girona in August 2023, he has rediscovered his form and is now one of La Liga’s most promising midfielders. His vision, passing range, and ability to dictate play have made him a standout performer for both his club and country.
With Morocco hoping to make a serious push for the AFCON title in 2025, Ounahi could be the player to step up in the absence of injured star Achraf Hakimi. As the creative heartbeat of Morocco’s midfield, his ability to control games and contribute offensively could be the difference-maker for the hosts.
2. Mohamed Amoura (Striker, Algeria)
Club: Wolfsburg (Germany)
Age: 25
Mohamed Amoura has been on fire in 2025, cementing his place as one of the top strikers in African football. Playing for Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga, Amoura has been a key player for Algeria, bagging an impressive 11 goals in just eight appearances for his country since March 2025. His exceptional form includes a hat-trick against Mozambique, showcasing his finishing prowess and ability to perform on the biggest stage.
Despite his small stature (standing at just 5’7”), Amoura has proven to be an aerial threat, surprising many with his ability to score headers. Although Algeria will look to the experienced Riyad Mahrez for leadership, Amoura’s partnership with the Manchester City winger could form a deadly attacking duo.
Algeria, the 2019 champions, have high hopes for Amoura, and his performances at AFCON 2025 could play a significant role in their bid to defend their title.
3. Victor Osimhen (Striker, Nigeria)
Club: Napoli (Italy)
Age: 26
Victor Osimhen’s importance to Nigeria cannot be overstated. The powerful striker is not only one of the top goalscorers in Europe’s top leagues but also the focal point of Nigeria’s attack. Osimhen’s form for Napoli, where he has consistently delivered 20+ goals per season, has made him one of the most coveted forwards in world football.
Nigeria’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup play-offs without Osimhen highlighted just how integral he is to the Super Eagles’ success. When he is fit, Osimhen elevates his team with his lethal finishing, physicality, and pace. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s AFCON 2021 runners-up finish and will be looking to lead his country to their fourth title in Morocco.
Nigeria will face tough competition in their group, including former champions Tunisia and 2004 AFCON winners, but with Osimhen in top form, they remain one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
4. Ibrahim Mbaye (Forward, Senegal)
Club: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Age: 17
Ibrahim Mbaye is one of the most exciting young talents in African football. At just 17, the Paris Saint-Germain forward has already made a name for himself with his performances for Senegal, most notably when he became the country’s youngest-ever goalscorer at 17 years and 298 days during a dominant 8-0 win over Kenya in 2025.
Mbaye is a former France youth international who made his senior debut for Senegal against Brazil in the same year. His maturity on the ball, flair, and clinical finishing make him a player to watch as Senegal look to defend their AFCON title.
Senegal’s attack is already full of stars, with Sadio Mané, Ismaila Sarr, and Iliman Ndiaye, but Mbaye’s emergence could be the key to taking the Teranga Lions’ attack to the next level. As the youngest member of Senegal’s squad, Mbaye’s ability to handle the pressure of the tournament will be fascinating to watch.
5. Rogers Mato (Forward, Uganda)
Club: Vardar (North Macedonia)
Age: 22
Rogers Mato is quickly becoming one of the most exciting young players in African football. The 22-year-old forward has been in incredible form for Vardar in the North Macedonian league, where he is currently tied as the league’s top scorer. Mato’s lethal left foot and ability to score from all positions make him a real threat.
After a strong showing in World Cup qualifying, where he helped Uganda secure second place in their group, Mato has emerged as a key figure in the Cranes’ attack. His two stunning goals in a 3-0 win over Mozambique in 2025 highlighted his potential.
Uganda will face stiff competition in Group C, with Nigeria and Tunisia in their way, but Mato’s form could prove decisive in helping Uganda navigate the group stages and push for a deep run in the tournament.
6. Reinildo (Defender, Mozambique)
Club: Sunderland (England)
Age: 31
Reinildo is one of the more unlikely players on this list, but his impact on the Mozambique squad cannot be overlooked. The 31-year-old left-back made history in 2025 by becoming the first Mozambican player to play in the Premier League when he joined Sunderland from Atlético Madrid.
Reinildo’s experience at the top level of European football has brought a sense of leadership and stability to Mozambique’s defense. He has played a crucial role in Sunderland’s impressive start to the Premier League season, and his performances for the Mambas will be key to their chances at AFCON 2025.
Mozambique, who have never reached the knockout stages of the tournament, will rely on Reinildo’s experience and defensive prowess to help them compete against heavyweights like Ivory Coast and Cameroon in Group F.
AFCON 2025 – A Showcase of Emerging and Established Talent
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations promises to be a thrilling tournament, with a mix of emerging stars and established superstars looking to make their mark. From Azzedine Ounahi’s playmaking skills to Victor Osimhen’s goal-scoring ability, the competition will offer fans plenty to look forward to.
As teams prepare for the tournament, these six players will be under the spotlight. Whether it’s the creativity of Ounahi, the scoring prowess of Amoura, or the leadership of Reinildo, these players will be pivotal in shaping the outcome of AFCON 2025. Their performances could ultimately determine which nation lifts the trophy in Rabat on January 18, 2026.
