Monday Dec 15, 2025. 14:00
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) kicks off in less than a week, and as excitement builds across the continent, attention is turning to the standout individuals who could shape the tournament. Here are three players expected to play influential roles for their nations in Morocco.
Achraf Hakimi
Born: 4 November 1998, Madrid, Spain
Position: Fullback, wingback, winger
Senior club career: Real Madrid (2017–2020); Borussia Dortmund (loan 2018–2019); Inter Milan (2020–2021); Paris Saint-Germain (2021– )
International debut: 11 October 2016, Morocco 4–0 Canada
Achraf Hakimi is poised to be one of Morocco’s most important figures at AFCON 2025. Appointed captain by coach Walid Regragui, he will lead the Atlas Lions during their bid to win the title on home soil. Operating primarily at right-back, Hakimi blends defensive reliability with attacking energy, often providing width, overlapping runs and incisive deliveries into the box. His experience at PSG—combined with his composure, leadership and ability to manage high-pressure moments—makes him central to Morocco’s balance and identity as they chase a long-awaited continental crown.
Zito Luvumbo
Born: 9 March 2002, Luanda, Angola
Position: Winger
Senior club career: Primeiro de Agosto (2018–2020); Cagliari (2020– ); Como (loan 2021)
International debut: 6 September 2019, Gambia 0–1 Angola
Zito Luvumbo is expected to be one of Angola’s primary attacking threats at AFCON 2025. A dynamic winger who typically operates on the right but can drift across the frontline, he brings pace, sharp dribbling and intelligent movement. His ability to stretch defences, deliver crosses and create chances makes him a reliable outlet in transition and structured attacks alike. With experience in European football through his development at Cagliari and loan spell at Como, Luvumbo offers a mix of youthful energy and matured technique. In challenging group fixtures, his creativity may prove crucial for Angola’s ambitions.
Ismaïla Sarr
Born: 25 February 1998, Saint-Louis, Senegal
Position: Winger, forward
Senior club career: FC Metz (2016–2017); Stade Rennes (2017–2019); Watford (2019–2023); Olympique Marseille (2023–2024); Crystal Palace (2024– )
International debut: 3 September 2016, Senegal 2–0 Namibia
Ismaïla Sarr continues to be a vital component of Senegal’s attack, operating as a winger or wide forward with equal effectiveness. In AFCON 2025 qualifying, he delivered decisive contributions, including a match-winning penalty against Burundi. His speed, direct running and ability to stretch defences create space for teammates while also allowing him to score or provide key passes. Sarr has a history of producing big moments in previous AFCON tournaments—such as his crucial goal against Cameroon—which underlines his value in pressure scenarios. With experience and versatility on his side, he will be central to Senegal’s hopes of making a deep run in Morocco.