As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations draws to a close, the excitement remains high, not only in the competition for the coveted continental title but also in the fierce race for the Golden Boot, awarded to the tournament's top scorer. This year's competition is particularly intense, with the title theoretically down to three of the continent's brightest stars, amidst great anticipation from fans for the outcome of the third-place match and the final.
The final scene and opportunities for redemption
With Morocco and Senegal having qualified for the highly anticipated final, and Egypt and Nigeria eliminated in the semi-finals to face each other in the third-place match, the calculations have become more complex. Moroccan star Brahim Diaz the scoring charts with five goals, capitalizing on the Atlas Lions' dominant attacking performance. However, his lead is not entirely secure, as he is closely followed by Egypt's captain Mohamed Salah and Nigeria's Victor Osimhen, both with four goals each.
The importance of the third-place match
Saturday's third-place match between Egypt and Nigeria takes on added significance for stars Mohamed Salah and Victor Osimhen. Historically, third-place matches in continental and global tournaments are often characterized by open play and a high number of goals, as players are freed from the strict tactical pressures of finals. This could give Salah or Osimhen the opportunity to score a goal or more, potentially turning the tables on Diaz before the latter's final on Sunday.
Generational conflict and stardom
This race represents a clash between different footballing schools and a testament to the quality of African professionals in Europe's top leagues. While Mohamed Salah seeks to cement his legendary status as one of the continent's greatest goalscorers, Victor Osimhen aims to establish himself as Africa's best striker today. Meanwhile, Brahim Diaz, with his impressive performances for the Moroccan national team, seeks to make history and lead his country to the continental title, bolstered by his top scorer award.
Current goalscorers list
Here is the official ranking of the tournament's top scorers before the final whistle:
- Ibrahim Diaz (Morocco): 5 goals
- Mohamed Salah (Egypt): 4 goals
- Victor Osimhen (Nigeria): 4 goals
- Riyad Mahrez (Algeria): 3 goals
- Ademola Lookman (Nigeria): 3 goals
- Ayoub El Kaabi (Morocco): 3 goals
- Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast): 3 goals
- Lassine Sinayoko (Mali): 3 goals
- Gael Kakuta (Democratic Republic of Congo): 2 goals
- Nicholas Jackson (Senegal): 2 goals
