Startling young African talents will capture the imagination at AFCON 2025 in Morocco

When the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, eyes across the continent will turn to a new generation of startling talents.

The tournament will serve as a grand stage for a vibrant group of young players who have already shown glimpses of brilliance. They are ready to write their own stories and reshape the competition’s narrative as they don the national colours of their respective countries.

Here are five standout youngsters who have aspirations of becoming household names in football.

1 Carlos Baleba (Cameroon)

The 21-year-old Carlos Baleba, a product of Cameroon’s rich footballing tradition, is regarded as a modern midfielder with a unique blend of physicality and technical prowess. Baleba highlights his gameplay with remarkable stamina and an impressive ability to connect with his teammates through a range of passes. He is instrumental in shaping matches across all phases, showcasing his talent by transitioning from defence to attack.

2 Mamadou Doumbia (Mali)

Mamadou Doumbia, a 19-year-old talent from Mali, is quickly making a name for himself in the competitive English football landscape, playing for Watford, where he established himself as a key attacking option. The forward, often likened to Manchester City’s prolific goal-scorer Erling Haaland, is proving to be a striker well-suited to the demands of modern play, thanks to his impressive blend of physical prowess and tactical intelligence.

3 Bilal El Khannouss (Morocco)

Very few talents emerge in the international arena who boast a combination of skill and intelligence capable of redefining how a game unfolds. Enter Bilal El Khannouss, an extraordinary attacking midfielder who has swiftly become a name to watch. Born in Belgium in 2004, El Khannouss has chosen to don the colours of Morocco. The world may soon find itself captivated by his remarkable talent.

4 Ilias Akhomach (Morocco)

Ilias Akhomach is a dazzling 21-year-old right winger whose career trajectory is on the rise. With a solid foundation laid at Barcelona’s famed academy, Akhomach has emerged as one of the most promising youngsters in football. Akhomach made his senior debut under the watchful eye of manager Xavi during a high-stakes LaLiga derby against Espanyol. This baptism of fire allowed him to showcase his formidable attacking intent.

5 Relebohile Mofokeng (South Africa)

One name is beginning to echo more frequently across the vibrant landscape of South African football: Relebohile Mofokeng. The 21-year-old embodies a fusion of composure and technical prowess that belies his tender years. Operating primarily as an attacking midfielder or winger, he is shaking up opponents with his distinctive style of play. Mofokeng’s exceptional abilities shine through particularly in tight spaces. He’s a master at destabilising defensive set-ups.