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Keep an eye on Bryan Mbeumo and Mohamed Salah as standout talents at AFCON 2025
The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 (AFCON 2025) officially begins today, showcasing the continent’s finest footballers competing for the prestigious title.
Hosted by Morocco, this tournament is Africa’s most celebrated football event, drawing global attention as nations vie for supremacy on home soil.
Among the squads, several marquee players are expected to shine, having demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency at the highest levels. Below is Soccernet.ng’s curated list of the top ten players poised to make a significant impact at AFCON 2025.
AFCON 2025: Ten Players to Watch
1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Despite a slight dip in goal-scoring this season, Mohamed Salah remains among the world’s premier forwards. The 33-year-old winger’s remarkable contribution of 34 goals and 23 assists last season was instrumental in Liverpool’s achievements.
Often scrutinized for not yet securing a major trophy with Egypt, Salah enters AFCON 2025 with renewed determination to claim continental glory. His precision left foot and sharp footballing intellect make him a formidable adversary for any defense.
2. Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)
Despite ongoing tensions between Cameroon’s football federation and government, the Indomitable Lions boast exceptional individual talent, with Bryan Mbeumo standing out prominently.
The 26-year-old Premier League star has netted 26 goals and provided eight assists in his last 54 matches. Renowned for his electrifying speed and clinical finishing, Mbeumo is Cameroon’s most potent offensive threat.
3. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Victor Osimhen is a rare talent in Nigerian football, embodying the modern striker’s attributes with aerial dominance and explosive pace. After missing the last World Cup, his focus is laser-sharp on winning silverware in Morocco to solidify his legacy among Nigeria’s football legends.
4. Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
A former CAF Player of the Year, Lookman has become a vital component of Atalanta’s offensive line. Although his season started slowly, he has regained form ahead of AFCON 2025.
His blistering pace and deft ability to maneuver through tight defenses will be crucial for Nigeria’s tactical approach under coach Eric Chelle. Additionally, Lookman’s high work rate contributes significantly on defense.
5. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
Recognized by Transfermarkt as Africa’s most valuable player, Hakimi is widely considered the world’s premier right-back. Fresh off multiple trophies with PSG, he is expected to spearhead Morocco’s campaign on home turf.
Though managing a minor injury, Hakimi’s blend of defensive resilience and attacking prowess will be pivotal for the host nation’s ambitions.
6. Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Although approaching the latter stages of his career, Mané remains the emblematic figure for Senegal’s Teranga Lions. Now with Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia, he has maintained impressive form, tallying 30 goals and 23 assists in 73 appearances.
As Senegal’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals, his leadership and experience are invaluable assets heading into AFCON 2025.
7. Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast)
The young Manchester United winger has blossomed under Ruben Amorim’s guidance and aims to replicate his club success on the international stage.
As Ivory Coast defends its title, Diallo’s creativity and flair on the right flank will be instrumental in driving the Elephants’ offensive strategies, with coach Emerse Fae relying heavily on his dynamism.
8. Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
The Algerian maestro, known for his elegant style and leadership, aims to guide the Desert Foxes to another AFCON triumph. With multiple Premier League titles under his belt from Leicester City and Manchester City, Mahrez now showcases his talents at Al Ahli.
At 34, his technical finesse and ability to influence matches remain undiminished, with his trademark left foot poised to dazzle fans throughout the tournament.
9. Brahim Díaz (Morocco)
The Real Madrid playmaker brings elegance and creativity to Morocco’s midfield. Known for his exceptional dribbling and vision, Díaz excels at threading incisive passes that dismantle defenses.
Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, he is motivated to demonstrate why he is a key figure in one of the world’s most successful clubs. Notably, he was the top scorer in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers with seven goals, underscoring his attacking prowess.
10. Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal)
As the era of Sadio Mané gradually transitions, Iliman Ndiaye is poised to become Senegal’s next leading star. The Everton forward has impressed in the Premier League with his relentless energy and ability to carry the ball forward effectively.
His standout performances have attracted interest from top European clubs, and AFCON 2025 represents his opportunity to announce himself as Africa’s emerging football sensation.
