Africa is gearing up for the excitement of the 34th edition of the AFCON CĂ´te d'Ivoire 2023, set to unfold between January 13 and February 11.
As anticipation builds, CAFOnline.com has compiled a list of the top 10 players to watch during this prestigious football tournament.
See also:
- Meet all 24 AFCON 2023 Coaches
- Complete AFCON 2023 Squad lists – All teams
- AFCON 2023 Table – Groups & Knockout Stages
- 2023 AFCON: 5 Young Players to Watch
Sadio Mané (Senegal, 31)
The Lions of Teranga's star player and the best player of the previous edition, Sadio Mané, will once again lead Senegal in their title defence.
Despite his move to Saudi Arabia last summer, Mané remains a sharp and influential force, aiming to guide Senegal to a historic double.
Vincent Aboubakar (Cameroon, 31)
Cameroon's captain and trusted goalscorer, Vincent Aboubakar, will play a pivotal role in leading the Indomitable Lions to their 6th title.
Known for his mental strength and leadership, Aboubakar has been a consistent force in previous competitions and will be a key figure for Cameroon.
Sehrou Guirassy (Guinea, 27)
Having come back to life in the German football scene, Sehrou Guirassy, the Guinean centre-forward, is in prime form.
His goal-scoring prowess has been crucial for his team, Syli de Guinée, and he aims to excel in the AFCON finals.
SĂ©bastien Haller (CĂ´te d'Ivoire, 30)
Playing his second AFCON, SĂ©bastien Haller is set to make a big impact on home turf.
The Ivorian striker, embraced by local supporters, aims to contribute significantly to the Elephants' campaign in front of his fans.
Mohamed Amoura (Algeria, 23)
While Algeria boasts renowned players like Mahrez and Feghouli, Mohamed Amoura stands out as a key attraction.
The midfielder, excelling in the Belgian league, has the opportunity to lead the Fennecs in a major competition.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria, 25)
Fresh from being named the Best African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen is set to lead Nigeria's attacking lineup.
The Nigerian striker celebrates his new status and aims to guide his team to success in CĂ´te d'Ivoire.
Azzedine Ounahi (Morocco, 24)
Azzedine Ounahi, part of Morocco's strong collective at the 2022 World Cup, has the chance to confirm his standing with the star-studded Atlas Lions in the AFCON 2023.
Mohammed Kudus (Ghana, 23)
A dynamic force for West Ham United in the Premier League, Mohammed Kudus brings explosive speed, skill, and goal-scoring prowess to Ghana's squad.
As a key player for the Black Stars, he aims to contribute to their pursuit of a fifth TotalEnergies AFCON title.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt, 31)
A Liverpool star and leader of the Pharaohs, Mohamed Salah is set to shine once again on the Ebrié Lagoon.
With a remarkable goal-scoring record, Salah guided Egypt through the qualifiers unscathed.
Peter Shalulile (Namibia, 30)
In the prime of his career with Mamelodi Sundowns, Peter Shalulile is a key member of Namibia's Brave Warriors.
Fresh from winning the inaugural African Football League, Shalulile aims to make a significant impact in CĂ´te d'Ivoire and contribute to Namibia's quest for a second TotalEnergies CAF Champions League gold medal.
As these top players showcase their skills and determination, football enthusiasts across Africa eagerly await the unfolding drama of the AFCON CĂ´te d'Ivoire 2023.
