The 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is fast approaching. Set to kick off in Morocco on December 21st, the tournament will culminate with the final in Rabat on January 18th.

Host nation Morocco aims to lift the trophy for the first time since 1976. Meanwhile, Mohamed Salah will lead Egypt’s charge for their first title since 2010. This gives him a chance to shift focus from discussions about his Liverpool future.

As the continent’s biggest football spectacle draws near, certain players are set to dominate headlines. Here are six stars we believe will be pivotal for their respective teams.

Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco)

Morocco may need midfield magic, especially if captain Achraf Hakimi struggles with injury. While Brahim Diaz topped qualifying scores with seven goals, many home fans look to Azzedine Ounahi for inspiration.

The Girona midfielder is a product of Morocco’s respected Mohammed VI Academy. He faced challenges at Marseille after his impressive 2022 World Cup run. However, his August move to La Liga has revitalized his game. His recent performances suggest he is regaining his peak form.

With Yassine Bonou in goal and Youssef En-Nesyri upfront, Morocco has strong senior figures. Their Group A matches against Comoros, Mali, and Zambia could depend on Ounahi’s creative spark. This is even more crucial if Hakimi isn’t fully fit.

Mohamed Amoura (Algeria)

No African player has scored more World Cup qualifying goals this year. Mohamed Amoura has had an explosive 2025 season. He has netted 11 times in eight matches for Algeria, including a hat-trick against Mozambique.

The Wolfsburg forward is no longer just a prospect. He is now the first-choice striker in a squad built around Riyad Mahrez. The two have developed a strong attacking partnership.

Amoura stands at just 5 feet 7 inches. Yet, his movement and timing make him a potent aerial threat. Opponents in Group E—Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea—would be wise not to underestimate him.

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)

It’s hard to discuss Nigeria’s Super Eagles without mentioning Victor Osimhen. The Galatasaray striker is the driving force of their attack. His absence during World Cup qualifiers highlighted his immense importance. Nigeria only managed four points from fifteen when he was unavailable.

Osimhen is central to Eric Chelle’s tactical approach. The team visibly struggled after he left the field at halftime during their play-off against DR Congo. Teammate Frank Onyeka describes him as being “on another level.” Many Nigerian fans share this sentiment.

Nigeria opens their Group C campaign against Tanzania. They will then face Uganda and 2004 champions Tunisia. If they aim to surpass their runners-up finish in Ivory Coast, Osimhen’s form will undoubtedly be a deciding factor.

Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal)

Sadio Mané remains a star for Senegal. Iliman Ndiaye and Ismaila Sarr also continue to impress in the Premier League. However, a new name could emerge: Ibrahim Mbaye. At just 17, he has already debuted and scored for the Teranga Lions.

The Paris St-Germain youngster, formerly a France youth international, has been gradually introduced to senior football this season. He played in the Champions League victory over Barcelona. He also featured in the European Super Cup triumph against Tottenham.

Last month, Mbaye made headlines. He became Senegal’s youngest-ever goalscorer at 17 years and 298 days. This came after scoring in an 8-0 win over Kenya. Group D opponents Botswana, DR Congo, and Benin will need to watch out for this exceptionally promising teenager.

Rogers Mato (Uganda)

Uganda returns to AFCON after a five-year absence, last appearing in 2019. They are building momentum as they prepare to co-host the 2027 edition. Their qualification saw them finish second behind Algeria. Rogers Mato’s sharp form played a key role.

The left winger has excelled with Vardar in North Macedonia. He is currently their joint-top scorer with 12 goals. Mato scored two stunning goals against Mozambique in September. He has become vital to Paul Put’s attacking strategies.

Uganda faces a challenging Group C. They have two former champions, Nigeria and Tunisia. They also have an East African derby against Tanzania. Their hopes of advancing may depend on Mato’s ability to deliver a clinical edge.

Reinildo (Mozambique)

Mozambique heads to North Africa hoping for their first-ever knockout stage appearance. For the first time, they boast a Premier League player. Reinildo made history in August. He became the first Mozambican to play in the English top flight. This followed his move from Atletico Madrid to Sunderland.

The 31-year-old quickly settled into the left-back position. He has helped the newly promoted side enjoy a strong start. His leadership and determination have earned praise. Legendary striker Tico Tico commented, “He’s very brave, he gets everyone together and he shows the determination which helps the team achieve good results.”

Group F places the Mambas with heavyweights Ivory Coast and Cameroon, plus Gabon. For Mozambique to break new ground, Reinildo must perform at his influential best.