African

  The CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 has reached a defining stage, with the semi-finals set to showcase not just elite teams but elite individuals. As the top two countries will be decided between four contenders on Wednesday, five former African Player of the Year winners are poised to take centre stage. Their presence elevates the spectacle, with their influence on the pitch proving decisive through goals, assists, leadership, and momentum. From explosive forwards to commanding leaders and a dynamic defender, these stars have so far shaped matches and carried the hopes of their nations. Victor Osimhen – Nigeria Nigeria’s path to the semi-finals has been driven by Victor Osimhen, the 2023 African Player of the Year. He has scored four goals and provided two assists, ranking among the tournament’s leading scorers. His pace, physicality, and movement have stretched defences, while his knockout-stage contributions underscore his reputation as a big-game performer. Osimhen sets the tone for Nigeria’s aggressive approach as they chase a fourth continental title. Ademola Lookman – Nigeria Ademola Lookman, 2024 African Player of the Year, has been Nigeria’s creative engine, contributing three goals and four assists. Operating across the frontline, Lookman’s sharp decision-making and direct runs have unlocked organised defences, giving the Super Eagles variety in attack. His consistency ensures Nigeria are not reliant on a single source of inspiration. Mohamed Salah – Egypt Egypt’s talisman, Mohamed Salah, who won the African Player of the Year in 2017 and 2018, has again risen to the occasion, scoring four goals and providing one assist. Salah’s composure in high-pressure situations has been crucial in guiding the Pharaohs through tight knockout matches. Beyond statistics, his leadership has shaped a disciplined and resilient side, now two wins away from an eighth AFCON crown. Sadio Mané – Senegal Senegal’s hopes rest on Sadio Mané, a two-time African Player of the Year. He has contributed one goal and three assists, but his influence extends far beyond goal involvement. Mané’s work rate, positional intelligence, and ability to draw defenders have created opportunities for teammates. His presence blends youth with experience at the sharp end of the tournament, critical as Senegal pursue another continental title. Achraf Hakimi – Morocco Achraf Hakimi, recently crowned African Player of the Year, overcame an early tournament injury to return for Morocco’s semi-final push. He has provided one assist from right-back while anchoring a defence that has kept multiple clean sheets. Hakimi’s energy, leadership, and ability to influence play from deep positions have been a timely boost for the hosts, whose ambitions are fuelled by his presence. Senegal face Egypt at 5 pm, and host Morocco will battle Nigeria at 9 pm on Wednesday.