The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 has reached a decisive stage, with the semi-finals set to showcase not solely Africa’s prime nationwide groups but in addition a number of the continent’s most embellished soccer stars.
Because the event narrows to 4 contenders, 5 former African Footballer of the Yr winners will take centre stage within the final 4.
Their presence has added status and high quality to the competitors, whereas their performances have performed a decisive function in guiding their respective groups this far.
From explosive attackers and inventive playmakers to inspirational leaders and a dynamic defender, these elite people have formed the narrative of AFCON 2025 with targets, assists, management and match-winning moments.
With Senegal dealing with Egypt and hosts Morocco taking up Nigeria, the semi-finals promise an exhilarating mix of collective ambition and particular person brilliance.
Victor Osimhen – Nigeria
Nigeria’s journey to the semi-finals has been pushed by the relentless type of Victor Osimhen.
The 2023 African Footballer of the Yr has delivered when it mattered most, scoring 4 targets and offering two assists, putting him among the many event’s prime performers.
Osimhen’s tempo, bodily energy and clever motion have constantly troubled opposing defences, whereas his decisive contributions within the knockout levels have strengthened his repute as a big-game participant.
Past the statistics, his depth has set the tone for Nigeria’s aggressive method because the Tremendous Eagles chase a fourth AFCON title.
Ademola Lookman – Nigeria
Ademola Lookman has emerged as Nigeria’s inventive heartbeat at AFCON 2025.
The 2024 African Footballer of the Yr has mixed aptitude with effectivity, registering three targets and 4 assists thus far within the event.
Working throughout the frontline, Lookman’s direct operating, imaginative and prescient and composure within the last third have unlocked cussed defences and added selection to Nigeria’s assault.
His consistency has ensured the Tremendous Eagles are usually not depending on a single supply of inspiration, making them one of the crucial balanced attacking sides left within the competitors.
Mohamed Salah – Egypt
Egypt’s talisman, Mohamed Salah, continues to shine on the continental stage.
A two-time African Footballer of the Yr (2017 and 2018), Salah has as soon as once more delivered for the Pharaohs, contributing 4 targets and one help of their march to the semi-finals.
His calmness beneath stress and skill to determine tight matches have been essential in Egypt’s dramatic knockout victories.
Past his numbers, Salah’s management has guided a disciplined and resilient Egyptian aspect that now stands simply two matches away from a record-extending eighth AFCON title.
Sadio Mané – Senegal
Senegal’s hopes relaxation closely on the expertise and affect of Sadio Mané.
The 2-time African Footballer of the Yr has recorded one objective and three assists, however his general affect has gone far past objective contributions.
