The Africa Nations Cup (AFCON) 2025 in Morocco has commenced with an exhilarating first matchday, setting a high standard for the continental showpiece. Twelve matches have concluded, producing a flurry of 29 goals and two red cards, signaling an intense competition from the outset. Football enthusiasts and analysts alike are already witnessing several stars deliver exceptional performances, cementing their status as crucial figures for their respective nations in the quest for glory.
The tournament, hosted by Morocco, carries immense expectations for the assembled talent across Africa. With many players arriving from top leagues worldwide, the pressure to perform on this grand stage is palpable. The opening fixtures have provided a glimpse into the potential narratives of AFCON 2025, highlighted by individual brilliance that has captivated audiences and significantly influenced early results for their teams.
Among the most impactful performers was Brahim Diaz, the tricky attacking midfielder who proved central to Morocco’s success in their opening encounter against Comoros. The Real Madrid star’s incisive play led to a penalty, though missed, and he subsequently scored the tournament’s opening goal, igniting the home crowd. His commanding display earned him the Player of the Match award, underlining the significant expectations placed on the 26-year-old as Morocco pursues its second AFCON title.
Senegal’s Nicholas Jackson also made a powerful statement, leading his nation to an emphatic 3-0 victory with an impressive brace. Often criticized for profligacy in European club football, Jackson showcased a lethal touch on African soil. His second goal, a moment of individual brilliance involving superb control and a deft touch to evade two defenders before a powerful finish, epitomized a player brimming with confidence and perfectly at home in the Moroccan setting.
South Africa’s Ronwen Williams delivered a masterclass in goalkeeping, crucial in limiting Angola to just one goal. Williams, building on his strong performances in previous AFCON editions, made three point-blank saves, demonstrating exceptional reflexes and command of his area. His dominance in both ground and aerial duels was instrumental in securing a vital win for Bafana Bafana, reinforcing his reputation as one of the continent’s premier shot-stoppers.
Tunisia’s Elias Achouri emerged as another standout, producing a thrilling performance against Uganda. The tricky winger stole the limelight by scoring with a first-time shot that rocketed into the roof of the net from a cross. Achouri further demonstrated his predatory instincts with intelligent movement, finding space at the back post to bundle home a rebound, effectively announcing his arrival on the continental stage with a memorable display.
Riyad Mahrez, the veteran Algerian captain, rolled back the years with a vintage performance, netting two goals against his opponents. His contributions included a well-executed trademark curling shot, delivered despite the close attention of three defenders and the goalkeeper. Mahrez was a constant menace throughout the match, his goals serving as the crowning glory on a Man of the Match performance that showcased his enduring class and leadership at 35.
Beyond these top five, several other players also provided moments of brilliance that warrant recognition. Ayoub El Kaabi of Morocco sealed his nation’s 2-0 opening win with a spectacular bicycle kick goal, an audacious effort already considered a contender for goal of the tournament. Mohamed Salah, momentarily leaving behind his club troubles at Liverpool, led Egypt to a narrow 2-1 victory over Zimbabwe, scoring the crucial winning goal in the dying minutes. These early individual heroics underscore the high quality and dramatic potential of AFCON 2025, promising an enthralling tournament ahead.
