5 best-performing players from the AFCON 2025 round of 16

The 2025 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) has lived up to expectations, with several nations registering impressive performances so far. Meanwhile, victories were much easier to register during the group stage, which produced 87 goals.

As the tournament progressed into the round of 16, the competition among participating teams intensified, leaving no room for error. As a result, only 22 goals were scored, and there are eight teams left to battle for the trophy.

During the recently concluded round of games, several players registered impressive performances that helped secure their nation a spot in the quarterfinals. Thus, this article will examine and rank the five best-performing players from the AFCON 2025 round of 16.

#5 Brahim Diaz (Morocco)

Morocco v Mali: Group A - Africa Cup Of Nations - Source: Getty

One player who has consistently pulled Morocco out of difficult situations is Brahim Diaz. The Real Madrid forward broke the deadlock by scoring the only goal of the game, which eliminated Tanzania from the AFCON 2025

Before the Atlas Lions' game against Tanzania in the round of 16, Diaz had scored in all three games he had played in the tournament. Thus, he went on to score his fourth goal, which also made him the top scorer of the AFCON 2025.

Considering that Diaz has proven to be a key player in Morocco's frontline, his expertise will be needed as the Atlas Lions are among the favorites to win the trophy.

#4 Yasser Ibrahim (Egypt)

Egypt v South Africa - Africa Cup of Nations - Source: Getty

Yasser Ibrahim was a standout player during the African Cup of Nations round of 16. The defender was solid in defense as Egypt registered a 3-1 win over Benin Republic in extra time.

He also scored the goal that put the Egyptians ahead in their win over Benin in the 97th minute before Mohamed Salah sealed victory. Ibrahim won seven out of eight ground duels, five out of seven tackles, and registered 12 clearances. His presence in defense will be key for the Pharaohs, who are set to battle Ivory Coast in the quarterfinals.

#3 Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast)

Gabon vs Ivory Coast Group F - 2025 Africa Cup Of Nations - Source: Getty

Ivory Coast has fought a good fight in its quest to defend its African Cup of Nations title so far. One player who has likewise made this possible is Amad Diallo.

The Manchester United forward was one of the brains behind the Elephants' dominance in the group stage. He also set the stage for Ivory Coast's 3-0 win over Burkina Faso by scoring the opening goal and providing the assist for the second.

A performance that has put him on track to become the tournament's top scorer, having scored three goals so far. He stands a good chance of winning the Golden Boot if he remains consistent.

#2 Papa Gueye (Senegal)

Senegal Media Conference and Training Session AFCON - Source: Getty

Papa Gueye stood out by scoring two goals to get Senegal back on track after an early scare during their 3-1 win over Sudan in the round of 16. His moments of individual brilliance were the highlight of the encounter, having stolen the show.

Even though he featured in midfield during the encounter against Sudan, his performance arguably proved to be the deciding factor. Gueye's ability to remain consistent will be put to the test as Senegal are scheduled to take on Mali in the quarterfinals of the tournament.

#1 Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

Mozambique vs Nigeria R16- 2025 Africa Cup Of Nations -(AFCON) Source: Getty

Ademola Lookman was arguably the best player during the just-concluded round of games. The winger dictated proceedings in attack by scoring Nigeria's opener against Mozambique in the 20th minute.

He also went on to create two other assists in the 47th and 75th minute,s respectively. A performance that has made him the player with the highest number of assists in AFCON 2025 (4).

Lookman's attacking consistency will once again be put to the test as Nigeria is set to battle Algeria for a place in the semifinals of the AFCON 2025. He's also one of the key contenders in the race for the Golden Boot of the tournament.