The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco has delivered thrilling action as the tournament reaches the quarter-final stage. With the Round of 10 largely complete and powerhouses like Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, and Cameroon advancing, individual brilliance has shone through amid team efforts.
From clinical finishers topping the goal charts to midfield maestros dictating play, here are the 10 standout performers so far, based on goals, assists, player ratings, and impact (in no particular order, with some extended to capture the depth of talent):
- Brahim DÃaz (Morocco)
The Real Madrid forward leads the Golden Boot race with 4 goals in 4 matches, including key contributions in the hosts’ narrow Round of 16 win over Tanzania. His creativity and flair have been pivotal for Morocco’s attack.
- Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Rated the tournament’s best player by some metrics after the group stage, Lookman has 3 goals and multiple assists, driving Nigeria’s dominant 4-0 thrashing of Mozambique in the last 16.
- Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
The Liverpool star has netted 3 goals, including crucial strikes to guide Egypt past Benin 3-1 in the Round of 16, keeping the Pharaohs’ title hopes alive.
- Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Osimhen bagged a brace against Mozambique, adding to his tally of 3 goals overall, showcasing his physical presence and finishing for the Super Eagles.
- Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
The Algerian captain has been lethal with 3 goals in limited minutes, including penalties and decisive strikes, as Algeria prepare for their Round of 16 clash.
- Ayoub El Kaabi (Morocco)
Tied on 3 goals, El Kaabi’s acrobatic strikes and clinical finishing have complemented DÃaz perfectly, making Morocco’s attack one of the most feared.
- Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
The PSG defender and captain has provided leadership and attacking thrust from the right flank, recovering from injury to marshal the hosts’ defense.
- Sadio Mané (Senegal)
The veteran forward has delivered key assists and goals, helping Senegal advance with his experience and clutch performances.
- Carlos Baleba (Cameroon)
The young Brighton midfielder has been a revelation in the engine room, controlling games and earning Man of the Match accolades.
- Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)
The Brentford winger has stepped up in attack, contributing goals and flair as Cameroon knocked out South Africa.
As the quarter-finals loom, these players have elevated their games, blending star power with emerging talent. The race for the Golden Boot and Player of the Tournament is wide open, expect more fireworks in the coming days.
Who has been your standout performer so far? Let us know in the comments!
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