The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 has reached a decisive stage, with the semi-finals set to showcase not only Africa’s top national teams but also some of the continent’s most decorated football stars.
As the tournament narrows to four contenders, five former African Footballer of the Year winners will take centre stage in the last four.
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Their presence has added prestige and quality to the competition, while their performances have played a decisive role in guiding their respective teams this far.
From explosive attackers and creative playmakers to inspirational leaders and a dynamic defender, these elite individuals have shaped the narrative of AFCON 2025 with goals, assists, leadership and match-winning moments.
With Senegal facing Egypt and hosts Morocco taking on Nigeria, the semi-finals promise a thrilling blend of collective ambition and individual brilliance.
Victor Osimhen – Nigeria
Nigeria’s journey to the semi-finals has been driven by the relentless form of Victor Osimhen.
The 2023 African Footballer of the Year has delivered when it mattered most, scoring four goals and providing two assists, placing him among the tournament’s top performers.
Osimhen’s pace, physical strength and intelligent movement have consistently troubled opposing defences, while his decisive contributions in the knockout stages have reinforced his reputation as a big-game player.
Beyond the statistics, his intensity has set the tone for Nigeria’s aggressive approach as the Super Eagles chase a fourth AFCON title.
Ademola Lookman – Nigeria
Ademola Lookman has emerged as Nigeria’s creative heartbeat at AFCON 2025.
The 2024 African Footballer of the Year has combined flair with efficiency, registering three goals and four assists so far in the tournament.
Operating across the frontline, Lookman’s direct running, vision and composure in the final third have unlocked stubborn defences and added variety to Nigeria’s attack.
His consistency has ensured the Super Eagles are not dependent on a single source of inspiration, making them one of the most balanced attacking sides left in the competition.
Mohamed Salah – Egypt
Egypt’s talisman, Mohamed Salah, continues to shine on the continental stage.
A two-time African Footballer of the Year (2017 and 2018), Salah has once again delivered for the Pharaohs, contributing four goals and one assist in their march to the semi-finals.
His calmness under pressure and ability to decide tight matches have been crucial in Egypt’s dramatic knockout victories.
Beyond his numbers, Salah’s leadership has guided a disciplined and resilient Egyptian side that now stands just two matches away from a record-extending eighth AFCON title.
Sadio Mané – Senegal
Senegal’s hopes rest heavily on the experience and influence of Sadio Mané.
The two-time African Footballer of the Year has recorded one goal and three assists, but his overall impact has gone far beyond goal contributions.
Mané’s tireless work rate, positional awareness and ability to attract defenders have created space for teammates to thrive. As the defending champions push for another continental crown, his leadership has been vital in blending youth and experience at the business end of the tournament.
Achraf Hakimi – Morocco
Morocco captain Achraf Hakimi has timed his return to perfection.
After early injury concerns, the recently crowned African Footballer of the Year has re-established himself as a key figure for the hosts.
From right-back, Hakimi has provided one assist while helping anchor a defence that has kept multiple clean sheets.
His energy, leadership and influence from deep positions have been a major boost for Morocco as they pursue a historic AFCON triumph on home soil.
A Showcase of African Excellence
With five African Footballer of the Year winners shaping the semi-final narrative, AFCON 2025 heads into its penultimate stage as a true celebration of elite African football.
Their collective influence has driven their teams forward, raised the level of competition and reinforced the global appeal of Africa’s flagship tournament. As the semi-finals kick off, all eyes will be on these stars to once again deliver on the biggest stage.
