The 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off in Morocco on Dec. 21, with the final set to be played in Rabat on Jan. 18, bringing together the continent’s top talent as nations compete for Africa’s most prestigious football trophy.
As hosts Morocco chase their first AFCON title since 1976 and Egypt look to reclaim continental glory led by Mohamed Salah, several players are expected to play defining roles in the tournament. Here are six footballers to watch closely at AFCON 2025:
Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco – Midfielder)
With captain Achraf Hakimi racing against time to regain fitness, much of Morocco’s creative burden may fall on Azzedine Ounahi. The 25-year-old Girona midfielder, a graduate of the Mohammed VI Football Academy, has rediscovered his form in La Liga after an inconsistent spell at Marseille. Ounahi’s composure and playmaking ability could be crucial as the Atlas Lions face Comoros, Mali and Zambia in Group A.
Mohamed Amoura (Algeria – Striker)
One of Africa’s most prolific forwards in 2025, Mohamed Amoura arrives in Morocco in red-hot form. The Wolfsburg striker has scored 11 goals in eight matches for Algeria since March, establishing himself as a key partner to Riyad Mahrez. Despite his modest height, Amoura poses a constant threat and will be central to Algeria’s ambitions in Group E.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria – Striker)
Nigeria’s hopes largely hinge on Victor Osimhen’s fitness and form. The Galatasaray striker remains the Super Eagles’ attacking focal point and has proven indispensable in major matches. Nigeria struggled in his absence during World Cup qualification, underlining his importance as they seek to go beyond their runner-up finish at the previous AFCON. The three-time champions face Tanzania, Uganda and Tunisia in Group C.
Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal – Forward)
At just 17, Ibrahim Mbaye represents Senegal’s next generation of stars. The Paris Saint-Germain youngster has already made history as Senegal’s youngest-ever goalscorer and is being carefully integrated into the senior squad. With Sadio Mane still leading the line, Mbaye could provide moments of youthful brilliance in Group D against Botswana, DR Congo and Benin.
Rogers Mato (Uganda – Forward)
Uganda return to AFCON for the first time since 2019, and Rogers Mato will be key to their hopes. The 22-year-old winger is enjoying a prolific season with Vardar in North Macedonia and was instrumental during qualification. Uganda face a tough Group C alongside Nigeria, Tunisia and Tanzania, where Mato’s pace and finishing could prove decisive.
Reinildo (Mozambique – Defender)
Mozambique enter the tournament aiming to reach the knockout stages for the first time. Their leader at the back is Reinildo, who made history this season by becoming the first Mozambican to play in the English Premier League after joining Sunderland. The experienced left-back will be vital as Mozambique face holders Ivory Coast, Cameroon and Gabon in Group F.
As AFCON 2025 unfolds, these players are expected to shape the tournament’s narrative — blending experience, emerging talent and continental ambition on African football’s biggest stage.