10 players who could define AFCON 2025

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scheduled to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, is poised to be a showcase of top-tier African footballing talent.

As national teams gather for the continent’s premier tournament, the spotlight will inevitably fall on the star players whose performances could define their nations’ campaigns.

From seasoned veterans seeking continental glory to rising stars making their mark, these 10 individuals possess the qualities and recent form to dominate headlines.

Mohamed Salah, Egypt

A two-time AFCON finalist, Mohamed Salah is desperate to finally lift the trophy for Egypt. The Liverpool forward’s AFCON 2023 was cut short after just two matches due to a hamstring injury, where he registered one goal and one assist.

This season with Liverpool, Salah has shown a dip in form compared to previous campaigns but remains a potent threat, with 5 goals and 4 assists in 20 appearances across all competitions so far in 2025/26.

His speed, lethal left foot, and leadership qualities make him Egypt’s main talisman as they push for a record-extending eighth title.

Victor Osimhen, Nigeria

Victor Osimhen arrives as one of the world’s most feared strikers. He was a central figure in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON 2023 final. Since moving to Galatasaray, his scoring prowess has continued unabated.

In the 2025/26 season, he has recorded an impressive 12 goals in 16 appearances across the Süper Lig and Champions League.

Osimhen’s aerial ability, relentless pressing, and clinical finishing will be crucial for the Super Eagles’ attack.

Sadio Mané, Senegal

The 2021 AFCON winner, Sadio Mané, brings vital experience and inspiration to the Senegal team. In AFCON 2023, he contributed one goal and three assists in four matches before their Round of 16 exit.

Currently playing for Al-Nassr, the winger has managed 6 goals and 6 assists in 17 matches across all competitions this 2025/26 season.

His dribbling skills, creative play, and winning mentality will be essential if Senegal is to defend their crown.

Achraf Hakimi, Morocco

Host nation captain Achraf Hakimi will bear the weight of Moroccan expectations. The world-class right-back is key to their chances of winning on home soil.

A Round of 16 exit in AFCON 2023 was a disappointment, though he managed a goal and an assist. With Paris Saint-Germain this season, Hakimi has registered 2 goals and 3 assists in 14 appearances, showcasing his attacking intent and defensive solidity. His pace and crossing ability from the flank are major assets.

Iliman Ndiaye, Senegal

With six goal involvements, Iliman Ndiaye has been among Everton’s most consistent Premier League performers this season and will aim to carry that form into Senegal’s attack.

The 25-year-old winger, admired for his dribbling and finishing, has risen quickly, moving from England’s second tier in 2023 to a central role as Everton push toward the top six.

At international level, Ndiaye has been a regular in Senegal’s squad for three years and will seek to make an impact at his third Africa Cup of Nations.

Ademola Lookman, Nigeria

Ademola Lookman emerged as a key attacking threat for Nigeria during AFCON 2023, scoring three goals in their journey to the final.

Lookman has recorded a total of 3 goals and 1 assist across all competitions for Atalanta in the 2025/26 season in 16 games. His direct play and eye for goal make him a dangerous forward.

Amad Diallo, Ivory Coast

Amad Diallo has a total of 2 goals and 3 assists across all competitions for Manchester United in the 2025/26 season. The 23-year-old’s strong form for  United positions him as a potentially key player for Côte d’Ivoire at the AFCON.

Bryan Mbeumo, Cameroon

Man United attacker Bryan Mbeumo missed AFCON 2023 due to injury, making this tournament his chance to shine on the continental stage.

The 26-year-old has a total of 7 goals and 1 assist across 17 games in all competitions. Known for his goal-scoring abilities in the Premier League, he is expected to lead Cameroon’s forward line.

Mohamed Amoura, Algeria

Mohamed Amoura has been in sensational goalscoring form for his club and country in the lead-up to the tournament. Amoura has a total of 6 goals and 2 assists across all competitions for VfL Wolfsburg. After playing in all three games of Algeria’s AFCON 2023 group stage exit without scoring, he will be eager to translate his club form onto the international stage, where he was Africa’s top scorer in the recent World Cup qualifiers.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Gabon

At 36, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang likely has his last shot at AFCON glory, albeit with injury concerns. He is still being assessed ahead of the tournament. Aubameyang has a total of 8 goals and 10 assists across all competitions for Olympique Marseille in 20 games.

Despite Gabon missing the last tournament, the Marseille striker’s experience and natural goalscoring instinct make him a crucial player for his nation as they aim to make an impact.