The Super Eagles have two young players who will be looking to excel at the AFCON…
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) is in full swing, and fans are soaking up every bit of the excitement.
So far, the heavyweights have lived up to expectations, with Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, and Mali all securing opening-day wins. Nigeria’s Super Eagles also joined the winner’s circle, edging out Tanzania 2-1 in a hard-fought encounter.
That victory leaves Nigeria second in Group C after the first round of matches, trailing Tunisia, who dismantled Uganda 3-1.
In this feature, Soccernet.ng highlights five of the top Under-23 talents currently competing in Group C. While some may not yet be guaranteed starters, they all possess the quality to change a game in an instant.
1. Salim Fago Lawal (Nigeria)
Despite his inclusion in the Super Eagles‘ squad sparking some debate, Salim Fago Lawal remains a prospect worth keeping tabs on.
The 22-year-old striker, who plies his trade for Istra, is a physical powerhouse. A true bully for defenders, Lawal combines raw strength with dribbling and clinical finishing.
While he may get limited minutes behind Nigeria’s big stars like Paul Onuachu and Victor Osimhen, he is undoubtedly a talent for the future.
2. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Nigeria)
A fresh face in the Nigerian setup, the Pisa midfielder is a dynamic box-to-box engine. At just 21, Akinsanmiro has already earned a reputation as a tireless runner who excels at keeping the ball and tackling.
While there are still raw sides to his game, his ability to drive the team forward from the center of the pitch makes him a valuable asset for the Super Eagles.
3. Hannibal Mejbri (Tunisia)
Widely considered one of the brightest young stars in African football, Mejbri is the heartbeat of the Tunisian midfield.
The Manchester United academy graduate, now showcasing his skills at Burnley, is a creative midfielder who dictates the tempo of the game.
If the Carthage Eagles are to go far in the AFCON 2025, Mejbri’s vision and passing range will be the primary reason why.
4. Novatus Miroshi (Tanzania)
The 23-year-old Mirroshi is one of the top men in the Tanzanian side. Currently ranked as the most valuable player in the Taifa Stars’ squad by Transfermarkt, the defensive midfielder is a physical specimen.
He is dominant in aerial duels, a solid tackler, and has an intensity that makes his presence felt in the middle of the park.
5. Travis Mutyaba (Uganda)
Mutyaba’s rise through the Ugandan ranks has been meteoric. Having represented the Cranes since the U-15 level, the 20-year-old CS Sfaxien man is now a senior regular.
️“ , . 10 ”
Tunisia midfielder Hannibal Mejbri was impressed by Travis Mutyaba’s cameo in their 3-1 win over @UgandaCranes on Tuesday. ⚽#AFCONWowos25 #AFCON2025 | @FredDarius2 pic.twitter.com/tIqO2i5Ggx
— Kawowo Sports (@KawowoSports) December 24, 2025
He is a very good ball carrier with a high football IQ and a impressive defensive work rate. Mutyaba has all the qualities of a player destined for the top European leagues.