Anticipation for AFCON 2025 grows stronger as the continent prepares for another month of elite football and emerging stars.
The tournament, running from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026, offers a grand stage for young talents ready to influence matches and shape storylines.
Several prospects arrive in Morocco with growing reputations and the confidence to take the next step in their careers. These five players stand out as ones to follow closely.
Eliesse Ben Seghir leads Morocco’s new wave of creative footballers at just 20 years old.
The Bayer Leverkusen midfielder thrives in tight spaces and uses quick touches, sharp vision and bold decision-making to drive attacks.
He plays comfortably as a left-sided attacker or midfielder, and his unpredictability gives the Atlas Lions a fresh creative spark.
AFCON 2025 offers him the chance to establish himself as Morocco’s next influential playmaker.
Ibrahim Maza carries Algeria’s hopes for a new generation of attacking talent.
The 20-year-old links midfield to attack with intelligent movement and calm execution in key areas.
He uses his versatility effectively, operating as an attacking midfielder or second striker, and continues to grow within Bayer Leverkusen’s system.
Maza enters the tournament eager to confirm his status as one of Algeria’s most exciting young prospects.
Lamine Camara arrives as a central figure in Senegal’s evolving midfield. The 21-year-old combines relentless energy, strong tackling and precise distribution, giving the Teranga Lions balance across the pitch.
Monaco rely on him for his adaptability, and Senegal benefit from a player who controls tempo, disrupts play and drives transitions.
He remains one of the standout talents heading into the competition.
Noah Sadiki brings composure and tactical awareness to DR Congo.
The 20-year-old shines as a multifunctional midfielder with the discipline to sit deep or push forward. Sunderland value his ball retention and positional intelligence, while DR Congo often turn to him in more advanced roles.
His ability to influence matches in several positions makes him a notable talent to watch.
Oumar Diakité continues his rapid rise with Côte d’Ivoire. The 21-year-old midfielder commands attention with his energy, sharp passing and intelligent pressing at Stade de Reims.
Under coach Emerse Faé, he transformed into a central figure, driving the Elephants’ transitions and offering consistency on both sides of the ball. As the defending champions look to retain their crown, Diakité stands ready to take on a decisive role.
AFCON 2025 provides each of these young footballers with a global spotlight and a chance to elevate their careers while competing for continental glory.
