The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) officially kicked off on Sunday, December 21, 2025, in Morocco and will run through Sunday, January 18, 2026, placing African football firmly under the global spotlight.
Set against the backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, AFCON 2025 is expected to deliver high drama, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments.
This edition is set to showcase a compelling blend of legendary figures chasing one final taste of continental glory and a new generation of stars ready to announce themselves on Africa’s biggest stage.
As the competition unfolds, here are some of the key players expected to shape the narrative of AFCON 2025.
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
Fresh off being crowned African Footballer of the Year, Hakimi will be the face of the tournament and the heartbeat of the host nation. Even after a minor ankle concern ahead of the opener, his explosive runs, leadership, and tactical intelligence from right-back are expected to be central to Morocco’s quest for a first AFCON title in 50 years.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
The “Egyptian King” will arrive still chasing the one major trophy that has eluded him.
At 33, Salah remains one of world football’s deadliest forwards. With Egypt pursuing a record-extending eighth AFCON crown, the pressure will once again be on him to transform past final heartbreaks into long-awaited continental glory.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
After a prolific 2025 that saw him score over 30 goals for club and country, Osimhen is expected to enter the tournament as arguably Africa’s most feared striker.
Following Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the Galatasaray talisman will be playing with a point to prove, carrying the Super Eagles’ hopes of a fourth AFCON title.
Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)
The Mbeumo Era is set to begin. With veteran Vincent Aboubakar left out of the squad, Bryan Mbeumo is expected to wear the captain’s armband for Cameroon.
The Manchester United forward, coming off a standout club season, will shoulder the responsibility of leading the Indomitable Lions’ attack.
Mohamed Amoura (Algeria)
The Goal Machine. Algeria’s Mohamed Amoura is set to arrive as Africa’s leading scorer in recent World Cup qualifiers, with 10 goals. His ruthless finishing for Wolfsburg will make him one of the frontrunners for the Golden Boot and a decisive figure in Algeria’s title ambitions.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon)
Aubameyang’s Last Dance. At 36, Gabon’s talisman remains a clinical presence in front of goal. AFCON 2025 is likely to represent his final opportunity to secure a major international trophy, adding emotional weight to every appearance.
Sadio Mané (Senegal)
A symbol of Senegal’s golden generation, Mané is set to return to the AFCON stage as both leader and inspiration. While no longer the explosive winger of his early years, his experience, intelligence, and big-game mentality will remain vital as they look forward to winning their second title.
Lamine Camara (Senegal )
The Engine Room. At just 21, Camara has already evolved from a promising prospect into a midfield cornerstone for Senegal.
Renowned for his tireless work rate, composure, and incisive vertical passing, the former Young Player of the Year will provide the creative balance needed to support Senegal’s attacking firepower.
Yan Diomandé (Ivory Coast )
The Dribble King. The 19-year-old winger is set to arrive as one of the Bundesliga’s breakout stars, having completed 79 successful take-ons this season.
Explosive, fearless, and two-footed, Diomandé is expected to bring unpredictability and pace to Ivory Coast’s flanks.
Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast )
Blessed with close control and sharp decision-making, Amad Diallo is expected to add Premier League polish to the Ivorian attack. His creativity in tight spaces could prove decisive as Ivory Coast seek to defend their AFCON title.
Ibrahim Maza (Algeria )
The Magician No. 10. After committing his international future to Algeria over Germany, Maza is set to emerge as the creative heartbeat of the Desert Foxes. Averaging over 3.3 successful dribbles per 90 minutes with exceptional passing accuracy, his ability to unlock compact defenses could define Algeria’s campaign.
Carlos Baleba (Cameroon )
The Midfield Powerhouse. Strong, composed, and technically refined, Baleba epitomizes the modern defensive midfielder. With senior figures moving on, he is expected to play a leading role for Cameroon, and a strong AFCON showing could significantly elevate his profile.
Brahim Díaz (Morocco )
Creative, fearless, and unpredictable, Brahim Díaz is set to add flair to Morocco’s attacking options. Comfortable operating between the lines, his ability to create and score in tight spaces will give the hosts an extra attacking dimension.
Chemsdine Talbi (Morocco )
The Hosts’ Secret Weapon. The Sunderland winger has impressed in the English Premier League with his pace and directness. While Morocco boast established stars like Hakimi and Ziyech, Talbi is expected to offer a different profile—an impact player capable of changing games from the bench.
With a rich blend of experience, youth, and tactical diversity, AFCON 2025 is poised to be one of the most captivating editions in the tournament’s history.
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Story by Xavier Mensah|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
