The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off December 21 in Morocco, spotlighting elite African talents like Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen ready to drive their nations to victory.
Mohamed Salah's Redemption Quest
Egypt's captain faces Liverpool tensions after benchings by Arne Slot and a fiery interview claiming the club undermined him amid transfer rumors. Despite a sluggish club season, Salah's proven AFCON threat chasing a first title after 2017 and 2021 final losses makes him essential for the Pharaohs.
Victor Osimhen's Super Eagles Burden
Nigeria's Galatasaray striker, with 12 goals including six in Champions League, anchors a squad dubbed "Osimhen's team" after winless World Cup qualifiers without him. His lethal finishing could end the Super Eagles' trophy drought on Moroccan soil.
Achraf Hakimi's Host Nation Charge
Morocco's CAF Player of the Year and PSG star brings trophy-winning pedigree—six this year—to the Atlas Lions, last champions in 1976. As hosts with recent U-20 World Cup success, Hakimi's dynamism fuels expectations of home glory.
Bryan Mbeumo's Manchester United Flair
Cameroon's top-scoring Red Devil this season (seven goals) dazzles with tight-angle strikes and gliding runs, drawing global eyes to the Indomitable Lions. His form positions him as a breakout threat in Morocco.
Iliman Ndiaye's Senegalese Spark
Everton's dribbling wizard, crediting his dancer father, boasts six goal involvements and outshines even Sadio Mané for Senegal's title defense. Ndiaye's joyful style promises entertainment in their second-straight AFCON bid.