35th Africa Cup of Nations Kicks Off in Morocco
The 35th Africa Cup of Nations is set to commence in Morocco on December 21, with the final scheduled for January 18 in Rabat.
The host nation aims to secure the trophy for the first time since 1976, while Egyptian star Mohamed Salah will seek to focus on delivering Egypt's first title since 2010, putting any thoughts about his future at Liverpool aside.
As the tournament approaches, BBC Sport Africa highlights six standout players to watch.
Azzedine Ounahi (Midfielder, Morocco)
With captain and reigning African Footballer of the Year Achraf Hakimi racing against time to recover for the finals, Morocco may look to other sources of inspiration. Azzedine Ounahi, who orchestrates play in the Atlas Lions' midfield, is one player many fans hope will excel. The 25-year-old, a product of Morocco's renowned Mohammed VI Academy, faced challenges at Marseille after a promising World Cup performance but has regained form since joining La Liga's Girona in August. Morocco, competing in Group A against Comoros, Mali, and Zambia, also boasts top goalkeeper Yassine Bonou and experienced striker Youssef En-Nesyri, but Ounahi could be the key player if Hakimi cannot participate.
Mohamed Amoura (Striker, Algeria)
Mohamed Amoura has had a stellar year, emerging as Africa's top scorer in World Cup qualifying. The Wolfsburg striker has netted 11 goals in just eight matches since March, including a hat-trick against Mozambique, solidifying his position as a first-choice player for Les Verts. While Riyad Mahrez remains a pivotal figure for the 2019 champions, Amoura has developed a strong partnership with him. Despite his 5-foot-7 stature, Group E rivals Sudan, Burkina Faso, and Equatorial Guinea must remain cautious of Amoura's aerial threat.
Victor Osimhen (Striker, Nigeria)
Victor Osimhen is an essential figure for Nigeria, with the team's success often linked to his performance. The Super Eagles struggled without the Galatasaray striker, earning only four points from 15 during his absence in the World Cup qualifying campaign. Under coach Eric Chelle, Osimhen's impact is undeniable, as Nigeria faltered during a crucial playoff match against DR Congo when he was substituted at halftime. Described by teammate Frank Onyeka as being "on another level," Osimhen's form will be vital for Nigeria's quest to improve on their runners-up finish from the previous tournament in Ivory Coast. The three-time champions will open their campaign against Tanzania in Group C, followed by matches against Uganda and 2004 champions Tunisia.
Ibrahim Mbaye (Forward, Senegal)
While Sadio Mane continues to lead the 2021 AFCON champions, the spotlight may soon shift to rising star Ibrahim Mbaye. The teenager is gradually being integrated into the Paris Saint-Germain senior squad, having made a notable debut against Brazil last month and becoming Senegal's youngest-ever goalscorer at just 17 years and 298 days during an 8-0 victory over Kenya. Group D will see Senegal face Botswana, DR Congo, and Benin, where fans will be eager to witness Mbaye's potential.
Rogers Mato (Forward, Uganda)
The Cranes are making a return to AFCON for the first time since 2019, having exited in the last 16. With an eye on hosting the 2027 finals, Uganda finished second in their World Cup qualifying group behind Algeria. Rogers Mato has been instrumental, sharing the title of top scorer with three goals. The 22-year-old left winger has been in impressive form for Vardar in the North Macedonian league, scoring spectacular goals, including two in a recent match against Mozambique. Uganda faces tough challenges in Group C against former champions Nigeria and Tunisia, alongside a derby against co-hosts Tanzania in 2027, where Mato's contributions could prove crucial.
Reinildo (Defender, Mozambique)
Mozambique heads to North Africa with hopes of breaking their previous AFCON knockout stage drought. They will feature their first-ever Premier League player, Reinildo, who joined Sunderland from Atletico Madrid in July. The 31-year-old left-back has been pivotal in helping the Black Cats start their season strongly and has been identified as a key player by the national team's all-time top scorer, Tico Tico. "He’s very brave, he unites the team, and his determination drives us toward good results," Tico Tico stated. Mozambique will face tough opponents in Group F, including holders Ivory Coast and heavyweights Cameroon, and will need to perform at their best to make history.