As the 35th Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on 21 December, anticipation is building across the continent. With the final set for 18 January in Rabat, millions of fans are gearing up for a month of fierce competition, electrifying talent and rising stars hoping to etch their names into African football history.
Morocco, hosting the tournament for the first time since 1988, enter with enormous expectations. The Atlas Lions haven’t lifted the trophy since 1976, and with home support behind them, the pressure is immense.
Meanwhile, Egypt talisman Mohamed Salah arrives with a point to prove, looking to put speculation over his Liverpool future aside and lead his nation to a first triumph since 2010.
Amid the established giants, several standout players are tipped to dominate headlines. From rising teenagers to established superstars, here are six footballers primed to make an impact.
Azzedine Ounahi – Morocco’s Midfield Maestro
With captain Achraf Hakimi battling injury, Morocco may lean heavily on midfielder Azzedine Ounahi to drive their campaign. The 25-year-old, a product of the prestigious Mohammed VI Academy, has rediscovered top form since joining Girona in La Liga. After a frustrating spell at Marseille, Ounahi’s resurgence comes at the perfect moment for the hosts. Intelligent on the ball, composed under pressure and capable of unlocking tight defences, he is expected to be the creative heartbeat of the Atlas Lions in Group A against Comoros, Mali and Zambia.
Mohamed Amoura – Algeria’s Red-Hot Finisher
Wolfsburg striker Mohamed Amoura has been Africa’s most prolific marksman in World Cup qualifying, netting 11 goals in eight matches. The 25-year-old’s acceleration, pressing intensity and clinical finishing have elevated him to first choice for Algeria, complementing veteran Riyad Mahrez. Despite standing only 5ft 7in, Amoura remains a dangerous aerial threat and carries the form of his life into Group E, where Algeria face Sudan, Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea. On current trajectory, he could emerge as one of the tournament’s breakout stars.
Victor Osimhen – Nigeria’s Irreplaceable Leader
Few players are as important to their national team as Victor Osimhen is to Nigeria. The Galatasaray striker’s absence during World Cup qualifying saw the Super Eagles collect just four points from a possible 15, underlining his immense influence. Described by team-mate Frank Onyeka as “on another level,” Osimhen combines power, speed and relentless energy. Nigeria’s chances in Group C against Tanzania, Uganda and Tunisia will depend heavily on his fitness and form. After falling just short in 2023, Osimhen will be eager to push Nigeria toward a fourth continental title.
Ibrahim Mbaye – Senegal’s Next Big Thing
At just 17, Ibrahim Mbaye is already being tipped as Senegal’s future star. The PSG forward has been gradually introduced to senior football, even starting a Champions League win over Barcelona. He recently became Senegal’s youngest-ever goalscorer, striking at 17 years and 298 days. With Sadio Mané still the country’s talisman, Mbaye will not carry the burden of expectation alone, but his flair and fearlessness could light up Group D as Senegal meet Botswana, DR Congo and Benin.
Rogers Mato – Uganda’s Rising Hope
Uganda return to Afcon for the first time since 2019, and winger Rogers Mato is central to their ambitions. The 22-year-old has excelled both for the national team and for Vardar in North Macedonia, where he is joint-top scorer. Known for his pace, direct dribbling and eye for spectacular goals, Mato could be vital in Uganda’s tough Group C campaign. Facing Nigeria and Tunisia on either side of a derby with Tanzania, Uganda will need every moment of brilliance Mato can produce.
Reinildo – Mozambique’s Premier League Pioneer
Mozambique arrive at AFCON aiming to reach the knockout stage for the first time. Their hopes rest heavily on left-back Reinildo, who made history this season by becoming the first Mozambican to play in the Premier League after joining Sunderland. Praised for his bravery and leadership, Reinildo will need to be at his very best as Mozambique face Ivory Coast, Cameroon and Gabon in a daunting Group F.
As AFCON 2025 approaches, these six players stand at the centre of intrigue and expectation. Whether seasoned stars or emerging talents, each has the potential to leave a lasting mark on Africa’s biggest football stage.
