Senegal retained the Africa Cup of Nations title after beating hosts Morocco national football team in Rabat, but the 2025 tournament may also be remembered for elevating several players onto the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
The final itself was dramatic. A late VAR-awarded penalty deep into stoppage time led Senegal’s players to briefly leave the pitch after seeing a potential winner ruled out.
Following a 17-minute delay, play resumed and goalkeeper Edouard Mendy saved Brahim Diaz’s attempted Panenka before extra time began.
Pape Gueye then struck four minutes into extra time to secure a second continental crown in five years for Senegal national football team.
Beyond the chaotic conclusion, the competition showcased emerging and established talent across the continent.
Morocco’s hosting drew widespread praise, while unpredictable results kept interest high as the tournament approached the final edition of the current cycle before a four-year rhythm begins in 2028.
Below are five players whose performances stood out.
Lassine Sinayoko (Mali / AJ Auxerre)
Lassine Sinayoko arrived valued at about €5m but left with a reputation as one of the tournament’s most clinical forwards.
He scored three group-stage goals and converted penalties under pressure.
Although Mali national football team were eliminated by eventual winners Senegal, his movement and finishing drew attention from scouts across Europe.
Stanley Nwabali (Nigeria / Chippa United)
Stanley Nwabali helped Nigeria national football team finish third, saving penalties from Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush in the bronze-medal shootout against Egypt national football team.
His saves throughout the competition proved decisive and have prompted transfer interest despite his contract in South Africa.
Calvin Bassey (Nigeria / Fulham)
 "Five players who boosted transfer value at AFCON 2025")
Calvin Bassey started six of Nigeria’s seven matches, kept four clean sheets and was named man of the match in the semi-final against Morocco.
His aerial ability, recovery pace and composure in possession highlighted his value as a modern centre-back.
Pape Gueye (Senegal / Villarreal)
Match-winner Gueye also controlled midfield across the tournament and was named in the team of the competition alongside Idrissa Gueye.
His performances combined discipline and decisive contributions, attracting growing interest from clubs monitoring midfield reinforcements.
Lyle Foster (South Africa / Burnley)
Lyle Foster finished as South Africa national football team’s standout player with two goals and two assists.
His hold-up play and finishing underlined his ability to lead the line at the highest level.
While the final drew attention for its controversy, the month-long tournament reinforced the depth of talent in African football.
With the next edition set to be hosted by Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda, the summer transfer window will reveal which clubs act on the promise shown across the competition.
AFCON, Senegal, Morocco, Transfers, African Football, Pape Gueye, Calvin Bassey, Stanley Nwabali, Lassine Sinayoko, Lyle Foster
