AFCON 2026 | Salah and Mané will lead the pack of standout marksmen at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
Africa Cup of Nations 2025
Top forwards like Sadio Mané, pictured, Mohamed Salah, and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang will aim to break Samuel Eto’o’s record of 18 AFCON goals at the 2025 tournament in Morocco. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
The upcoming Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco promises to be a thrilling display of talent, particularly among the goal scorers. Among the 24 nations that have qualified for the tournament, several forwards stand out with impressive statistics and form. Their consistent performances on the pitch have set the stage for an exciting series of matches.
This tournament offers these elite strikers the chance to cement their legacy and potentially break a historic record, drawing global attention to African football talent and fostering national pride among participating countries.
Here we look at the standout forwards vying to surpass Samuel Eto’o’s enduring record of 18 tournament goals.
Sadio Mané (Senegal)
The Teranga Lions' influential captain, Mané – with nine goals, is the highest-scoring active player, making him a formidable force heading into the competition.
This year marks Mané’s sixth AFCON appearance. His experience in the tournament is undeniable: 20 matches played, nine goals scored (including three penalties), and four assists. Expect breathtaking goals and brilliant assists from the Senegalese talisman.
Mohammed Salah of Egypt. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Egyptian star Salah remains the shining light and his team’s beacon of hope, having netted seven goals in previous AFCON tournaments.
With Egypt’s last title win dating back to 2010, the pressure is mounting on for Pharaohs to reclaim their former glory, and Salah remains central to their aspirations. Participating in his fifth AFCON, Salah’s remarkable journey began in 2017.
Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
The Desert Foxes' Mahrez enters his sixth AFCON with six goals from 20 matches. Mahrez is a model of consistency and technical brilliance.
Four years ago, his composure and skill helped Algeria secure their last AFCON title, cementing his status as a key figure. In addition to his technique, Mahrez’s discipline sets him apart on the continental stage.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang of Gabon. Photo: Backpagepix
Image: Backpagepix
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon)
The centre African nation' talisman, Aubameyang, has another opportunity to leave his mark on the continental stage.
With six goals in 13 AFCON matches across four editions, the 36-year old enters the tournament in fine form after a stellar season with Olympique de Marseille. In Ligue 1 this season, he has scored five goals and contributed five assists in 13 matches.
Emilio Nsue (Equatorial Guinea)
The National Thunders’ 36-year-old captain, Nsue won the Golden Boot at the 2023 tournament, scoring five goals in four matches.
Born in Spain, Nsue is one of Equatorial Guinea’s greatest football legends. After three AFCON tournaments, he has six goals from 14 appearances, further solidifying his place in the nation’s football history.