With a few days left until the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) scheduled to start on December 21, 2025, here are 7 players to watch out for.
As the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco, all eyes will be on the players who can light up the tournament. Here are seven star players who could lead their countries to glory and make AFCON 2025 unforgettable.
From superstars like Mohamed Salah’s record-breaking ambitions to Victor Osimhen’s quest for redemption, and Zaha and Diallo looking to be back-to-back champions, these players are game changers; they have the talent, skill, and determination to make a lasting impact.
Who are the players to look out for at AFCON 2025?
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Arguably one of the most talked-about players heading into the tournament this year, Mohamed Salah is definitely a player to watch at AFCON 2025. With so much in terms of his career on the line, the Egyptian superstar is aiming to lead his team to a record-extending eighth title while proving to the naysayers as well as his club, Liverpool, that he still has it in him.
Mohamed Salah enters AFCON 2025 as a global icon whose efficiency remains legendary. His 2024/25 campaign with Liverpool was historic, as he became the first man to register 10+ goals and 10+ assists in six separate Premier League seasons, finishing with a record 47 goal involvements.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Currently in the form of his life at both club and international level, Victor Osimhen is a player we expect to be in the spotlight at AFCON 2025. The Galatasaray forward, alongside his countrymen (Super Eagles of Nigeria) will consider the tournament as a redemption arc after missing out on the 2026 World Cup, and also losing in the final last tournament.
Lethal in front of goal, Osimhen’s unrivalled tenacity, his ability to challenge for every long ball and turn half-chances into goals make him a one-man wrecking machine who is always fun to watch, especially in high-pressure situations like the 2025 AFCON.
Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast)
The 23-year-old Ivorian winger has been on fire for Manchester United, and now he's eyeing redemption after missing out on Côte d'Ivoire's 2023 AFCON triumph due to injury. His close control, creativity, and one-on-one skills make him a threat in attack, and he's ready to shine on the continental stage.
Diallo's versatility will be a major asset for the defending champions heading into the tournament. He can play as an attacking winger or in deeper wide roles.
Wilfried Zaha (Ivory Coast)
The 33-year-old forward will be making a return that many did not see coming to African football. Wilfried Zaha has been on fire at Charlotte FC, scoring 10 goals and providing 10 assists this season in MLS, and his addition to the Ivory Coast's squad adds both experience and flair to the team.
With a point to prove at the international level, his impressive form earned him a spot in the national team, and he's looking to make an impact in Morocco. Zaha's experience and skill will be valuable assets for Cote D'Ivoire.
He's a versatile player who can operate effectively in various roles, making him a great option for coach Emerse Faé. With his current form, Zaha could be a key player for the Elephants in AFCON 2025.
Emilio Nsue (Equatorial Guinea)
In a shocking twist, the AFCON 2023 highest goalscorer, Emilio Nsue, made his return to the squad for Equatorial Guinea for the 2025 edition of the tournament.
The Equatorial Guinea captain already has five goals, more than any other player, and has led his team into the knockout stage as the unbeaten winner of a tough group including Nigeria, Ivory Coast and Guinea-Bissau.
It’s only the fourth time Equatorial Guinea, a small country on the west coast of Africa, will participate in the tournament.
Carlos Baleba (Cameroon)
One of the most sought-after midfielders in the Premier League, Carlos Baleba, will be on international duty for Cameroon at AFCON 2025. The midfielder will be in the spotlight as the January 2026 transfer window gradually approaches, with clubs still interested in signing the star player.
Baleba will add solidity to Cameroon's midfield, a key area where Cameroon has been lacking in the previous editions of the tournament in recent times. Describing his style of play on the pitch, Baleba has pointed out that playing for Cameroon offers him more freedom in the midfield, and fans can expect this to show at the tournament scheduled to kick off on December 21st, 2025.
Paul Onuachu
An addition many have been clamouring for in the squad selection for AFCON 2025 of the Super Eagles of Nigeria has been granted in the form of Paul Onuachu. The Turkish Super Lig's highest goalscorer for the 2025/2026 season will be on the radar of football fans and critics to see if he lives up to the expectations in terms of goals at the international level as well.
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