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<p>AFCON 2025</p>
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<p><img alt="AFCON 2025: Spotlight on Ismael Saibari, Ibrahim Mbaye & Others to Watch" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/spotlight-afcon-2025-players-to-watch-1765877787-185342.jpg" title="Spotlight on Key Players in AFCON 2025"></p>
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<p>The excitement of football doesn't pause this winter: the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations will commence on December 21, with Morocco hosting the tournament and playing the opening match in Group A against Comoros. A total of twenty-four nations are vying for the prestigious AFCON trophy at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium, set to be awarded on January 18, 2026. To highlight this thrilling competition, <em>Transfermarkt</em> has curated insights on a standout player from each participating team.</p>
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<p><img alt="" height="629" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/newsansicht/afcon-winners-1763482856-183110.png?lm=1763482881" width="503"></p>
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<p>The goal is to spotlight rising stars rather than the usual suspects like Victor Osimhen, Mohamed Salah, or Omar Marmoush. We aim to pinpoint players who may shine on this continental stage, whether they're promising young talents or seasoned players who have yet to capture the global spotlight. A diverse panel of experts—including players, managers, journalists, Transfermarkt staff, and dedicated scouts—have shared their insights on players from their home nations or leagues.</p>
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<h2><strong>Group A:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Morocco – Ismael Saibari – PSV Eindhoven (Eredivisie)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Fouad', Data Scout for Moroccan football:</em> "If I were to compare Ismael Saibari to a car, he’d be a Lamborghini Urus: powerful, compact, and blisteringly fast. His explosiveness and awareness in midfield make him a standout. Saibari’s influence on the game is evident, and his intelligence is sharp. His burgeoning market value in the Eredivisie attests to his talent. Fluent in five languages, it's his footwork that truly speaks volumes. This season, he has delivered 14 goals and four assists across 29 matches for PSV and Morocco. After primarily coming off the bench at the previous AFCON, his talent cannot be overlooked this time around.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Mali – Kamory Doumbia – Stade Brestois 29 (Ligue 1)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Martial Goarnisson, creator of Marée Rouge website:</em> "Kamory Doumbia has become increasingly decisive this season with four goals and two assists, even if his overall visibility in games has decreased. Brest's performance in his absence highlighted his importance, as their fortunes improved significantly upon his return. While he can be prone to losing possession, Doumbia knows the right moments to make an impact. His versatility in the Mali setup aligns him better to his strengths, though he still needs to sharpen his tackling and aggression in duels, especially in Ligue 1's tougher defensive landscape. His ability to shine in a more open game shows promise for his national team.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Zambia – Kings Kangwa – Hapoel Beer Sheva (Ligat ha’Al)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Alexshw', Data Scout for Israeli football:</em> "Kings Kangwa embodies the modern box-to-box midfielder. A physically robust player with solid technical ability, he excels at controlling the tempo of games in the Israeli League. Kangwa consistently pushes play forward and is a clutch goalscorer. His trajectory could mirror Emmanuel Mayuka's success with Zambia, having previously shone in Israeli football before winning AFCON in 2012.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Comoros – Rafiki Saïd – Standard Liège (Pro League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Bart Tamsyn, Area Manager Transfermarkt Belgium:</em> "Rafiki Saïd is often the catalyst for Standard’s attacks. After a slow start, he’s netted three goals and registered one assist in his last nine league outings, underlining his crucial role in a team that struggled offensively. He’s particularly dangerous on the left flank, where his speed allows him to create scoring opportunities. His temperament can cloud his performance, but his absence would be noticeably felt by Standard as well as Comoros.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Group B:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Egypt – Marwan Ateya – Al Ahly SC (Egypt Premier League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Osama Rakha, Data Scout for Egyptian football:</em> "Marwan Ateya consistently emerged as a reliable player in the Egyptian Premier League, maintaining his spot in the starting lineup amid managerial upheaval. He’s a robust 'Destroyer' midfielder adept at winning duels and making critical interceptions. His contributions are not limited to defense; he uses accurate long passes to create chances, evidenced by his assists during the AFCON and World Cup qualifiers.”</p>
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<h2><strong>South Africa – Mohau Nkota – Al-Ettifaq FC (Saudi Pro League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Sahil Ebrahim, Area Manager Transfermarkt South Africa:</em> "As Bafana Bafana prepares for AFCON 2025, 21-year-old winger Mohau Nkota stands out. His journey from the Orlando Pirates academy to signing with Al-Ettifaq showcases his impressive skills and rapid development. In ten games since joining the Saudi Pro League, he’s contributed to four goals, marking him as a player to watch.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Angola – Milson – Red Star Belgrade (Super liga Srbije)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Zvezda_98', Data Scout for Serbian football:</em> "Milson arrived at Red Star Belgrade with high expectations after a successful spell abroad. Although he encountered a patch of poor form this season, he’s a quick and skilled winger capable of producing crucial impacts in matches. With his market value on the decline, AFCON presents an opportunity to showcase his talents and potentially draw interest from abroad.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Zimbabwe – Tawanda Maswanhise – Motherwell FC (Scottish Premiership)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Euan Robertson, Content Manager Transfermarkt UK:</em> "Tawanda Maswanhise has emerged as a top player this season, currently sharing the title of joint-top scorer in the Scottish Premiership with eight goals. His remarkable speed and sharp finishing have contributed to Motherwell's attractive football. With a recent market valuation increase, maintaining his performance could see him gain further recognition.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Group C:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Nigeria – Ebenezer Akinsanmiro – Pisa SC (Serie A)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Iyam95', Data Scout for Nigerian football:</em> "Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is undeniably a gifted player, showcasing exceptional football intelligence and composure. His ability to maintain and recycle possession sets him apart in a squad dominated by more conventional midfielders. Coach Eric Chelle may benefit from him to better control matches, a quality the team has lacked since the retirement of John Obi Mikel.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Tunisia – Hannibal – Burnley FC (Premier League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Yazjel', Data Scout for Tunisian football:</em> "Hannibal shines for Tunisia, benefiting from a clearer role and greater trust from the coaching staff. His leadership, intensity, and creativity could propel Tunisia forward in important matches. However, team cohesion is crucial for success beyond the quarter-finals." </p>
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<h2><strong>Uganda – Rogers Mato – Vardar Skopje (Prva Liga)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Zoran18', Data Scout for North Macedonian football:</em> "Rogers Mato's journey in Macedonia has blossomed after adapting from a challenging first year. At Vardar Skopje, he’s shown versatility on both wings with impressive speed and shooting ability. With a valuation increase reflecting his progress, Mato is a key player for Uganda at AFCON.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Tanzania – Novatus Miroshi – Göztepe (Süper Lig)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Cemal Utku Ağkaya, Content Manager Transfermarkt Türkiye:</em> "Versatile and physically gifted, Novatus Miroshi has garnered attention from European clubs. His left-footed play and strong defensive skills make him an asset in a high-tempo game. Although his attacking contributions could use refinement, his defensive prowess positions him as a compelling prospect for Tanzania this AFCON.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Group D:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Senegal – Ibrahim Mbaye – Paris Saint-Germain (Ligue 1)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Chérif Sadio, Development and Partnerships Director at Diambars FC:</em> "Ibrahim Mbaye stands out due to his adaptability, technical skills, and game intelligence. He plays a multifaceted role, reinforcing a Senegalese squad known for its intensity. His unique profile provides invaluable depth and creativity that could enhance Senegal's play on the continental stage.”</p>
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<h2><strong>DR Congo – Noah Sadiki – AFC Sunderland (Premier League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Ben Littlemore, Content Manager Transfermarkt UK:</em> "Noah Sadiki has made a stellar debut at Sunderland, stepping up in the midfield alongside Granit Xhaka. His energy and industry in high-pressure situations demonstrate his readiness for competition. He'll surely carry the lessons of leadership into the AFCON arena.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Benin – Yohan Roche – Petrolul Ploiesti (SuperLiga)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Anaane Tidjani, player of Olympic Azzawiya SC (Libya) with 11 caps for Benin:</em> "Despite his age, Yohan Roche continues to develop as a player. He brings consistency in left-back and centre-back roles for Benin, showcasing determination and resilience. His contributions will be pivotal in navigating tough matches against formidable opponents such as Senegal.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Botswana – Thatayaone Ditlhokwe – Al-Ittihad SC (Libyan Premier League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Juan Carlos Garrido, his coach last year at Al-Ittihad SC:</em> "Thatayaone Ditlhokwe is an immensely talented left-centre back known for his aerial accuracy and ball control. His leadership qualities are invaluable for Botswana as they head into AFCON. His capabilities both on and off the pitch make him a natural captain for the team.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Group E:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Algeria – Ibrahim Maza – Bayer 04 Leverkusen (Bundesliga)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>'Adib13' and 'Tsunay', Data Scouts for Algerian football:</em> "At just 20, Ibrahim Maza possesses the physicality to compete with seasoned players in midfield. He plays a pivotal role at Leverkusen, balancing defensive responsibilities with offensive support. His speed and creativity will be crucial to Algeria's attack, particularly with an aging Riyad Mahrez. Maza's potential could mirror the trajectory of Ismaël Bennacer after their AFCON win.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Burkina Faso – Arsène Kouassi – FC Lorient (Ligue 1)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Quentin Burban, Journalist for Ouest-France:</em> "Arsène Kouassi has emerged as a key player for Lorient, excelling in defensive situations and creating opportunities on the flank. His growth and tenacity make him a valuable asset for Burkina Faso as they contend with tough adversaries in their group.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Equatorial Guinea – Saúl Coco – Torino FC (Serie A)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Aniello Luciano, Content Manager for Transfermarkt Italy:</em> "Saúl Coco's initial performances raised expectations at Torino, but inconsistency has impacted his development. His experience will be vital for Equatorial Guinea, especially given their challenging position in the FIFA rankings.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Sudan – Mo Eisa – Uthai Thani FC (Thai League)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Ronan Caroff, Area Manager for Transfermarkt France:</em> "Mo Eisa offers a refreshing dynamic amidst Sudan's roster of homegrown talent. After a successful spell in England, he’s thriving in Thailand, with commendable stats that can boost Sudan's attacking threat in AFCON." </p>
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<h2><strong>Group F:</strong></h2>
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<h2><strong>Côte d’Ivoire – Christ Inao Oulaï – Trabzonspor (Süper Lig)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Mert Kücükoglu, Data Administrator for Transfermarkt Türkiye:</em> "Christ Inao Oulaï's swift dribbling and set-piece prowess make him a notable player for Côte d'Ivoire. However, improvement in tackling is required as he faces fierce competition for midfield spots. His bench role could provide him critical experience heading into future tournaments." </p>
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<h2><strong>Cameroon – Christian Kofane – Bayer 04 Leverkusen (Bundesliga)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Alexander Binder, Chief Editor for Transfermarkt Germany:</em> "Bayer Leverkusen has high hopes for 19-year-old Christian Kofane, who’s demonstrated impressive adaptation to the Bundesliga. His scoring record positions him as a player to watch for Cameroon, showcasing both pace and finishing capability." </p>
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<h2><strong>Gabon – Teddy Averlant – Amiens SC (Ligue 2)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Victor Lobry, his teammate and captain at Amiens SC:</em> "Teddy Averlant's journey from amateur leagues to Gabon's international squad is inspiring. His speed and positive energy have made a significant impact in the group, making him a player to keep an eye on during AFCON.”</p>
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<h2><strong>Mozambique – Geny Catamo – Sporting Portugal (Liga Portugal)</strong></h2>
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<p><em>Gianluca Lorenzoni, player of Boavista Praia (CV) with six caps for Mozambique:</em> "Geny Catamo, now 24, has been pivotal for Mozambique, showcasing his one-on-one dribbling prowess and poise in big matches. His early elevation to the national team reflects his growing influence over the past seasons." </p>
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