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Players to look out for at AFCON 2025

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As the world anticipates the end of the year 2025, football lovers around the world are also looking forward to the most lucrative football competition in Africa, the Africa Cup of Nations ( AFCON 2025).

Beyond the football, AFCON 2025 carries extra significance as Morocco hosts the tournament for the first time in decades, offering a blend of world-class facilities and rich cultural energy. Fans across the continent are eagerly anticipating dramatic upsets from the underdogs when they are paired up against some of the top teams.

As the teams gear up and preparations intensify, AFCON 2025 stands poised to showcase the very best of African football: skill, resilience, pride, and unstoppable ambition.

Here are some players to look out for at AFCON 2025.

(1) Victor Osimhen – Nigeria

Nigeria’s hopes of reclaiming continental glory will solely depend on how much of effort that Victor Osimhen shows for the Super Eagles. The Galatasaray forward remains one of Africa’s most lethal strikers, coming off an impressive run of form at club level, Osimhen enters the tournament as one of AFCON’s headline acts, a player capable of carrying the Super Eagles deep into the knockout rounds.

(2) Mohamed Salah – Egypt

As time is beginning to wind down on Mohamed Salah's foot ball remains one of Africa’s most influential and consistent performers. The Egyptian captain will once again lead the Pharaohs with his trademark composure, intelligence and big-game mentality. Salah’s experience at the highest level, coupled with his ability to decide matches on his own, makes him one of the main attractions in Morocco.

(3) Brahim Diaz – Morocco

The Real Madrid star Brahim Diaz will be making his AFCON debut. Diaz brings flair, movement and technical quality that can unlock any defence. His performances in qualifying were electric, and with the backing of home supporters, he could emerge as one of the tournament’s defining players. Expect him to be at the heart of Morocco’s attacking play.

(4) Carlos Baleba – Cameroon

One of Africa’s brightest emerging talents, Carlos Baleba arrives at AFCON 2025 with growing confidence. The young midfielder has developed into a key figure for Cameroon, offering physical presence, boundless energy and calm distribution. After impressing in the qualifiers, Baleba is widely tipped as one of the potential breakout stars of the tournament someone capable of dominating the midfield battles.

(5) Achraf Hakimi

No discussion about AFCON 2025 standouts is complete without Achraf Hakimi who was recently named the best player in the contiment. The Moroccan full-back has evolved into one of the best in the world, combining blistering pace with exceptional attacking output. Hakimi will also bring experience, leadership and a winning mentality—qualities Morocco will rely on heavily as they aim to lift the trophy on home soil.

Whether contributing goals, assists or match-saving defensive plays, Hakimi is expected to be one of the tournament’s most dominant figures.

When is AFCON 2025?

The competition will be hosted in Morocco aill start from December 21st, 2025 till January 18th, 2025?

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