Alynho Haïdara has emerged as the standout performer in the group stages of the 2025 Africa U17 Cup of Nations, leading the tournament’s scoring charts with six goals.
The Ivorian forward’s clinical finishing has been pivotal in Ivory Coast’s journey to the quarter-finals in Morocco.
The 16-year-old announced himself in emphatic fashion by netting four goals in Ivory Coast’s opening fixture against the Central African Republic.
Haïdara further underlined his attacking prowess with a brace in the final group game against Mali, securing the Elephants’ passage into the knockout stage and solidifying his reputation as one of the tournament’s breakout talents.
Close behind him is Burkina Faso’s Asharaf Tapsoba, who has scored in every match his side has played.
Tapsoba began the tournament with a stunning performance against Cameroon, scoring twice — including a memorable lob that showcased his creativity and confidence.
He went on to add goals in Burkina Faso’s encounters with Egypt and South Africa, bringing his total to four.
The battle for the Golden Boot remains wide open as the competition enters its decisive phase.
With the quarter-finals set to kick off on Thursday, several players are well-positioned to challenge Haïdara’s lead.
A quartet of players currently sit tied in third place with three goals apiece.
Gambia’s Aliew Dramane has impressed with his dynamic attacking displays, while Morocco’s Belmokhtar has found the net consistently in front of a home crowd.
Mali’s Raymond Bomba and Angola’s Liyun also join the group, having each contributed significantly to their teams’ group stage campaigns.
With the knockout rounds typically bringing tighter contests and higher stakes, goal-scoring opportunities may be fewer — but for those chasing the tournament’s top scorer honour, every chance could be crucial.
U17 AFCON Top scorers so far:
- Alynho Haïdara (Ivory Coast) – 6 goals
- Asharaf Tapsoba (Burkina Faso) – 4 goals
- Aliew Dramane (Gambia) – 3 goals
- Belmokhtar (Morocco) – 3 goals
- Raymond Bomba (Mali) – 3 goals
- Liyun (Angola) – 3 goals
As the quarter-finals approach, the race for the Golden Boot is intensifying — and all eyes will be on the tournament’s sharpest finishers to see who rises to the occasion.
