As the continent prepares for the 34th edition of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, the stage is set for Africa’s elite players to showcase their talent.
From Saturday, 13 January to 11 February, Côte d’Ivoire will play host to a tournament brimming with stars determined to leave their mark on African football’s most prestigious competition.
CAFOnline.com has highlighted a Top 10 list of players who are expected to captivate audiences and change games with their skill, leadership, and passion.
Leading the pack is Senegal’s Sadio Mané, the best player of the previous edition. At 31, Mané continues to dazzle with his sharpness, embodying the heart and soul of the Lions of Teranga. He is set to lead his team with the hope of achieving an illustrious double.
Cameroon’s Vincent Aboubakar, also 31, carries the mantle of captaincy and the role of the team’s trusted goalscorer. His quest is to steer the Indomitable Lions to their 6th championship, drawing on his mental fortitude and his knack for scoring crucial goals.
Guinea’s Sehrou Guirassy, at 27, is experiencing a renaissance in the Bundesliga, becoming a vital piece in Syli de Guinée’s puzzle. His goal-scoring form will be essential for Guinea’s success in the tournament.
Côte d’Ivoire’s own Sébastien Haller is poised to make an impact on home soil. At 30, Haller’s maturity and prowess are expected to be on full display as he plays in front of a supportive home crowd.
Algeria’s Mohamed Amoura, the 23-year-old midfielder, is the emerging star set to capture the spotlight. Excelling in Belgium, Amoura carries the weight of expectation to lead the Fennecs in a major competition.
Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, named Best African Player of the Year, is the talisman of a formidable attacking line-up. The 25-year-old striker’s performance will be pivotal for Nigeria’s ambitions.
Morocco’s Azzedine Ounahi, 24, showcased his talents at the 2022 World Cup and now aims to affirm his status with the star-studded Atlas Lions on African football’s grandest stage.
Ghana’s Mohammed Kudus, a dynamo for West Ham United, is a 23-year-old sensation known for his speed, skill, and scoring. He will be central to the Black Stars’ quest for glory.
Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, at 31, continues to be a beacon for his national team. The Liverpool star, who is among the top five scorers in the club’s history, remains a leading figure for the Pharaohs.
Finally, Namibia’s Peter Shalulile, at the height of his powers with Mamelodi Sundowns, is crucial for the Brave Warriors. His experience and current form will be invaluable for Namibia’s campaign.
The TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023 is not just a battle among teams but a stage for individual brilliance. With players like these, the tournament promises to be a spectacle of the highest order, a celebration of African football’s rich and diverse talent. As the competition unfolds, these names could be the architects of the moments that will resonate long after the final whistle.
