)
Find out which African footballers are set to dominate 2025 with unmatched talent, resilience and impact in global football.
Some of you might already have your favorite African footballers, but 2025 promises to showcase even greater brilliance from the continent’s finest.
Africa has a proud history of producing world-class talent, and each year, the footballing world is captivated by these stars’ flair, resilience and skill.
With the upcoming tournaments and league seasons, many African players are ready to make their mark on the global stage.
From established icons to rising stars, these players are set to leave an indelible impact on both their clubs and national teams.
Whether you follow the Premier League, Serie A, or La Liga, these players’ performances will be impossible to ignore.
)
12:30 - 06.01.2025
Sadio Mane & Aisha Tamba: A year together, but what’s behind their private world?
The couple married in a private ceremony a year ago, embracing faith, love, and tradition while keeping their journey private.
Pulse Sports Kenya dives into the profiles of these exceptional talents.
What makes these players exceptional?
1.Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Victor Osimhen has emerged as one of the most lethal strikers in modern football.
)
Having enjoyed a phenomenal 2023-24 season with Napoli, Osimhen has solidified his reputation as a goal-scoring machine.
His pace, strength, and uncanny ability to find the back of the net have made him indispensable for both his club and the Nigerian national team.
Now on-loan at Galatasaray, he helped secure crucial victories, earning accolades and admiration from fans worldwide.
What sets Osimhen apart is his incredible work ethic and hunger for success.
Despite facing challenges early in his career, including injuries and adapting to European football, he has risen to become a dominant force.
His agility and positioning in the box make him a nightmare for defenders, while his humility off the field has endeared him to supporters.
In 2025, Osimhen will likely be the centerpiece for Nigeria’s World Cup campaign and a pivotal figure in Napoli’s European aspirations.
His consistent performances could attract interest from Europe’s biggest clubs, making him a player to watch both domestically and internationally.
2.Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Even as Mohamed Salah approaches the twilight of his career, the Egyptian King remains a talisman for both Liverpool and his national team.
Salah’s brilliance on the right wing has defined an era of success for Liverpool, where his unmatched goal-scoring record and creative playmaking have been instrumental.
)
Fans continue to marvel at his incredible dribbling, sharp finishing, and ability to rise to the occasion in crucial matches.
Salah’s leadership for Egypt has been equally impressive.
He has carried the hopes of his nation on his shoulders, inspiring the Pharaohs to compete at the highest levels.
)
07:00 - 06.01.2025
Shame for Kenya as neighbours Uganda, Tanzania near readiness for CHAN while blame-game ensues
Kenya has fallen behind neighbours Tanzania and Uganda in its preparation for co-hosting CHAN in February.
In 2025, Salah will be eager to guide Egypt to glory, potentially in AFCON or World Cup qualifiers. His experience and drive will undoubtedly galvanize his teammates.
Moreover, Salah’s consistency in the Premier League is unmatched. He continues to break records, proving that age is just a number.
3.Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
Achraf Hakimi has established himself as one of the finest full-backs in world football.
The Moroccan star’s versatility, combining offensive prowess with defensive solidity, has made him a cornerstone for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the Moroccan national team.
)
His performances at the 2022 World Cup, where Morocco became the first African team to reach the semifinals, were nothing short of historic.
At PSG, Hakimi’s overlapping runs and pinpoint crosses have been critical to their attacking strategy.
His ability to contribute to goals and assists while maintaining defensive discipline sets him apart from his peers.
Additionally, his understanding of the game allows him to adapt to various tactical systems seamlessly.
In 2025, Hakimi will aim to lead Morocco to further success in international competitions while continuing to excel in European club football.
4.Andre Onana (Cameroon)
Andre Onana’s rise as one of the best goalkeepers in the world is a testament to his resilience and talent.
The Cameroonian shot-stopper made headlines with his move to Manchester United, where he has quickly become a key player.
)
Onana’s exceptional reflexes, commanding presence in the box, and ability to play out from the back have redefined the role of a modern goalkeeper.
Onana’s journey has been far from easy. After overcoming a doping suspension, he returned stronger than ever, proving his mental fortitude and determination. His performances in crucial matches for both club and country have cemented his status as a top-tier goalkeeper.
Onana is expected to play a key tole as Cameroon prepares for AFCON and other competitions.
)
05:04 - 06.01.2025
5 January football highlights that every Kenyan fan should know
Explore significant January milestones in Kenyan football history, including Gor Mahia's Super Cup victory, AFC Leopards' Premier League return, Harambee Stars' coaching
His leadership and reliability between the posts will be critical, making him a player to watch closely in 2025.
5.Youssef En-Nesyri (Morocco)
Youssef En-Nesyri has been a key player for Fenerbahçe, consistently delivering in Super Lig and European competitions.
)
The Moroccan striker’s aerial ability, sharp finishing, and knack for being in the right place at the right time have made him a vital asset for both club and country.
Nesyri was instrumental in Morocco’s historic World Cup run, and 2025 promises to be another stellar year for the forward as he continues to evolve his game.
6.Wilfried Zaha (Ivory Coast)
Wilfried Zaha’s move to Lyon has reignited his career, allowing him to showcase his unique flair and creativity.
)
The Ivorian forward has long been known for his exceptional dribbling skills and ability to unlock defenses.
At Lyon, he has rediscovered his best form, delighting fans with his dazzling performances.
Zaha’s role for the Ivory Coast national team cannot be overstated. As the Elephants prepare for AFCON and other international challenges, Zaha’s experience and leadership will be vital. His ability to step up in critical moments makes him a key player for his country.
In 2025, Zaha’s performances in both domestic and international competitions will be closely monitored.
)
15:00 - 02.01.2025
Ben Stanley Omondi: The rising star who once played against Porto & Chelsea at 13 now hungry to shine for Harambee Stars
Omondi, who was part of the U-14 Kenyan side that played against the likes of Porto and Chelsea in Southampton back in 2017, is now part of the senior Harambee Stars side preparing for the 2024 CHAN.
His determination to succeed and his unique skill set ensure he remains one of Africa’s most exciting talents.
7.Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria)
Samuel Chukwueze has rapidly risen through the ranks to become one of Nigeria’s brightest stars.
The winger’s explosive pace, quick feet, and eye for goal have made him a standout performer in European football.
)
His move to AC Milan has provided him with the platform to showcase his abilities on a bigger stage.
Chukwueze’s contributions for Nigeria have been equally impressive. As a crucial player for the Super Eagles, his ability to create chances and score important goals has endeared him to fans. His performances in international tournaments have further highlighted his potential to become one of Africa’s best.
)
12:00 - 06.01.2025
Kenya awaits fate as CAF sets date for CHAN draw in Nairobi
Kenya will find out its opponents on Wednesday, January 15, when CAF conducts the draw for 2025 CHAN in Nairobi.
In 2025, Chukwueze will be looking to take his game to the next level. With AC Milan competing in top European competitions and Nigeria aiming for glory in AFCON, Chukwueze’s journey will be one to follow closely.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)