The stage is set for a spectacular display of individual brilliance as the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations reaches its penultimate stage. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has pinpointed five former African Player of the Year winners as the key figures expected to light up the semi-final matches scheduled for today, Wednesday, 14 January 2026.
Elite Clashes Define the Path to the Final
The semi-final fixtures will see Egypt take on Senegal in one encounter, while the Super Eagles of Nigeria will battle host nation Morocco in the other. These matches will determine the two teams that will advance to compete for the continental crown. CAF, in a report on its official website, emphasized that the presence of these five elite players elevates the spectacle, with their on-pitch influence being decisive in driving their teams this far.
According to the football governing body, the tournament has narrowed to four contenders where individual brilliance meets collective ambition. The report stated that from explosive forwards to commanding leaders, these stars have left an unmistakable imprint on the competition, shaping matches through goals, assists, leadership, and sheer momentum.
The Five Stars Tipped for Semi-Final Glory
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria): The reigning African Player of the Year has been relentless for Nigeria. With four goals and two assists, he ranks among the tournament's top scorers. His pace and physicality have troubled defences, cementing his reputation as a big-game player and powering Nigeria's aggressive quest for a fourth AFCON title.
Ademola Lookman (Nigeria): The 2024 African Player of the Year has been Nigeria's creative force. He has contributed three goals and four assists, providing crucial variety in attack. His direct running and sharp decision-making have unlocked tight defences, making the Super Eagles a balanced and formidable attacking side.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt): Egypt's talisman has once again been central to their run. Salah has four goals and one assist, demonstrating composure in high-pressure moments. His leadership has been instrumental in guiding a resilient Egyptian side that is now two games away from a record-extending eighth AFCON crown.
Sadio Mané (Senegal): The two-time African Player of the Year brings experience and calm authority to Senegal's charge. While his stats show one goal and three assists, his influence is broader. Mané's work rate and intelligence create space for teammates, blending youth with experience as Senegal pursues another title.
Achraf Hakimi (Morocco): The newly crowned African Player of the Year and Moroccan captain has overcome an early injury to anchor his team's defence. He has provided one assist from right-back and been part of a defence with multiple clean sheets. His energy and leadership from deep positions are a timely boost for the host nation's semi-final ambitions.
A Showcase of Continental Excellence
CAF believes that with these five stars shaping the narrative, the AFCON 2025 semi-finals represent a premier showcase of elite African talent. Their collective impact has not only propelled their respective teams forward but has also significantly raised the competitive and global profile of Africa's flagship football tournament. All eyes will be on these luminaries as they strive to write the next chapter of AFCON history today in Morocco.
