CAN 2025: The 4 biggest surprises of the group stage | OneFootball

The 4 biggest surprises of the group stage

Maza/@CAF

Four players truly stood out during the group stage of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN 2025), emerging as the breakout sensations of the tournament.

Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast)

The Manchester United winger is the architect of this Ivory Coast squad. He netted two crucial goals against Mozambique and Cameroon, propelling the Elephants to the top spot in Group F.

Ibrahim Maza (Algeria)

While Riyad Mahrez led the Fennecs with his three goals, Ibrahim Maza proved he’s ready to take up the mantle. At just 20 years old, the Bayer Leverkusen prodigy dazzled with 2 goals and an assist.

Christian Kofane (Cameroon)

Scorer of one of the tournament’s most stunning goals, Christian Kofane looks set to make fans forget Vincent Aboubakar. The legacy is a heavy one, but the drive and determination are clearly there for the 21-year-old forward.

Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal)

He’s the future of the Lions of Teranga. The 17-year-old winger is starting to deliver on the promise he showed with PSG, now dazzling in the national team colors of Senegal.