The opening round of Group C at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations offered more than just early points on the board, providing a platform for several of the group’s youngest players to announce themselves, Footynaija.com reports.
Nigeria secured a narrow 2-1 win over Tanzania in the first fixture of the group while Tunisia responded just hours later by registering a comfortable 3-1 win over Uganda to take the driving seat on goal difference.
While the spotlight naturally fell on established stars, a handful of emerging talents stood out across the opening fixtures, impressing with their composure, personality and influence while also making a strong case for closer attention as the competition progresses.
1. Akor Adams (Nigeria, 25) – Forward
The Sevilla forward was Nigeria’s youngest player on the pitch in their opening win over Tanzania and delivered a performance that reinforced his growing importance to Eric Chelle’s side.
Adams was heavily involved in Nigeria’s dominant attacking play during his hour on the pitch, using his physicality, movement and work rate to stretch the Tanzanian backline. He came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock when his towering header crashed against the crossbar.
Although he did not find the net, Adams’ display offered plenty of encouragement and hinted at a bigger role as the tournament unfolds.
2. Novatus Miroshi (Tanzania, 23) – Midfielder
Despite Tanzania’s opening-day defeat, Miroshi emerged as one of the Taifa Stars’ standout performers against Nigeria.
The 23-year-old midfielder showcased his quality with a sublime ball over the top early in the second half, creating the opportunity for Charles M’Mombwa to level the scores and briefly unsettle the Super Eagles.
Miroshi’s composure in possession and willingness to play progressively ensured Tanzania remained competitive for long spells, even as Nigeria’s superior quality eventually told. His performance suggested he could be central to any positive moments Tanzania manage in the remainder of the group.
3. Zuberi Foba (Tanzania, 23) – Goalkeeper
Zuberi Foba was arguably Tanzania’s most influential player on the night, producing a goalkeeping display that kept his side in contention far longer than the scoreline suggested.
The 23-year-old shot-stopper saved eight of Nigeria’s eleven efforts on target, denying Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Akor Adams and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru with a series of sharp reflex stops.
While he was ultimately beaten by Semi Ajayi’s header and Lookman’s long-range strike, Foba’s performance stood out as one of the finest individual displays of the opening round.
4. Hannibal Mejbri (Tunisia, 22) – Midfielder
Hannibal Mejbri wasted little time in stamping his authority on Group C as Tunisia opened their campaign with a convincing 3-1 win over Uganda in Fes. The 22-year-old played a key role in Tunisia’s blistering start, providing the assist for the opening goal inside the first ten minutes.
He went on to enjoy a commanding performance in midfield, creating more chances than any other player in the match and dictating the tempo with his energy and intelligence. His display set the tone for Tunisia’s campaign and reinforced his status as one of the group’s standout young talents.
5. Rogers Mato (Uganda, 22) – Winger
Despite Uganda’s difficult night against Tunisia, Mato emerged with credit from the defeat. The 22-year-old winger was Uganda’s brightest attacking outlet, winning more fouls than any other player in the match and contesting duels relentlessly against a well-organised Tunisian side.
His willingness to take responsibility and battle in possession marked him out as a player capable of influencing games, even against stronger opposition. Mato’s all-action display suggests he could yet have a significant impact as the tournament progresses.
