10 Best Players from AFCON 2025 Qualifiers 

After the electrifying conclusion of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) earlier this year, the focus has swiftly shifted to the qualifiers for the 2025 edition, set to unfold in Morocco. 

The opening rounds, played out last weekend, have already served up a feast of unexpected twists: Ghana suffered a shock home defeat to Angola, Nigeria grappled with a stubborn Rwandan side, and South Africa needed a last-gasp equalizer to avert a loss against Uganda.

Amid these surprises, several players have risen to the occasion, delivering performances that have helped their teams and also captivated football enthusiasts across the continent. Here are the ten players who have been the shining stars of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers so far.

Youssouf Yacoub M’Changama – Comoros

Comoros have made a commendable start to their qualifying journey, securing impressive draws against Gambia and Madagascar, and positioning themselves second in Group A behind Tunisia. Central to their success is the veteran midfielder Youssouf Yacoub M’Changama. 

At 34, the Troyes player has been pivotal, finding the net in both matches. He opened the scoring in the 1-1 draw with Gambia and struck a crucial equalizer in another 1-1 stalemate away at Madagascar. M’Changama’s experience and leadership are proving invaluable for Comoros’ aspirations.

Brahim Diaz – Morocco

Making a significant impact after switching his international allegiance from Spain to Morocco, Brahim Diaz has hit the ground running with the Atlas Lions. The Real Madrid star showcased his talent by scoring in Morocco’s commanding 4-1 win over Gabon. 

Demonstrating his knack for crucial moments, Diaz also netted a dramatic 93rd-minute winner in a tight 1-0 victory against Lesotho. 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – Gabon

Despite being 35, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang continues to defy age with stellar performances. The former Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund striker remains Gabon’s talisman, scoring in their heavy defeat to Morocco and converting an early penalty in the 2-0 triumph over the Central African Republic.

With 22 goals in 45 international appearances, Aubameyang’s experience and goal-scoring prowess are key assets for Gabon.

Louis Mafouta – Central African Republic

A beacon of hope for the Central African Republic’s ambitions of a first-ever AFCON qualification, Louis Mafouta has been exceptional. The Amiens SC forward, already his nation’s top scorer, netted a brace in their 3-1 victory over Lesotho. Although he was contained in the match against Gabon, Mafouta’s form suggests he will be a crucial figure in the upcoming clashes with Morocco.

Amine Gouiri – Algeria

Former France youth international Amine Gouiri has quickly become a key player for Algeria. The Stade Rennais forward opened his account by sealing a 2-0 win over Equatorial Guinea off the bench. 

He then impressed on his full debut, scoring in a 3-0 win against Liberia. Gouiri’s integration into the team adds depth to Algeria’s attacking options as they strive for a flawless qualification campaign.

Yves Bissouma – Mali

Yves Bissouma, the dynamic Tottenham midfielder, ended a seven-year goal drought for Mali with impactful performances. He scored a vital equalizer in a 1-1 draw with Mozambique and delivered the winning goal in a narrow 1-0 victory over Eswatini. Bissouma’s contributions have been instrumental in Mali’s strong start, earning them four points from two matches.

Mahmoud Hassan ‘Trézéguet’ – Egypt

Egypt has kicked off their qualifiers in dominant fashion, netting seven goals without conceding. At the forefront is Mahmoud Hassan, known as Trézéguet. The winger, who once graced the Premier League with Aston Villa, was outstanding in the 4-0 thrashing of Botswana, scoring twice. 

With 21 goals in 64 appearances, Trézéguet continues to be a linchpin in Egypt’s offensive lineup.

Thalente Mbatha – South Africa

Emerging as a clutch player for South Africa, Thalente Mbatha has twice rescued his team with last-minute heroics. He secured a 2-2 draw against Uganda with a dramatic 95th-minute equalizer and repeated the feat by scoring the decisive goal in a thrilling 3-2 win over South Sudan. 

Mbatha’s penchant for critical goals underscores his importance to Bafana Bafana’s campaign.

Ademola Lookman – Nigeria

Ademola Lookman has swiftly become a standout for the Super Eagles. The Atalanta forward was instrumental in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Benin, scoring twice. 

In the subsequent 0-0 draw with Rwanda, he had a goal controversially disallowed for offside. At 26, Lookman’s performances have positioned him as a strong contender for African Footballer of the Year and a key player in Nigeria’s qualification efforts.

Jean-Philippe Krasso – Ivory Coast

Leading the attack for Ivory Coast, Jean-Philippe Krasso has been in prolific form, scoring three of the team’s four goals in the qualifiers. 

The Paris FC striker bagged a brace in the 2-0 win over Zambia and opened the scoring in another 2-0 victory against Chad. Krasso’s clinical finishing is propelling the Elephants toward a successful qualification campaign.