The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), hosted by Morocco, has seen an exhilarating display of attacking talent as teams vie for both continental glory and individual honours. Among the most prestigious personal achievements in any major tournament is the Golden Boot, awarded to the highest goal-scorer across the competition. Fans and pundits alike have been analysing form, team dynamics, and historical pedigree to predict which players are most likely to shine in front of goal. Based on expert opinions and player profiles, here we profile the top five favourites to win the Golden Boot at AFCON 2025, blending on-field performance with expectations for the latter stages of the tournament.
1. Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
At the top of the list is Riyad Mahrez, a seasoned forward and set-piece specialist who brings a blend of creativity and clinical finishing to Algeria’s campaign. Mahrez has been an influential figure for the Desert Foxes, featuring prominently in attacking areas and converting key opportunities into goals. Known for his ability to score from distance, free kicks, and penalties, Mahrez’s experience in major tournaments across Europe and Africa makes him a formidable contender for the Golden Boot. His technical skill and leadership on the pitch have already seen him contribute multiple goals early in the 2025 AFCON, establishing him as a consistent threat.
2. Ayoub El Kaabi (Morocco)
Next on the list is Ayoub El Kaabi, representing the host nation of Morocco. El Kaabi has been a standout performer, using his aerial prowess and instinctive finishing to great effect. In Morocco’s opening fixtures, he has already shown his scoring ability by finding the back of the net with a spectacular header and an acrobatic overhead kick, both of which energised the home crowd and reinforced his status as a primary scoring threat. As the tournament progresses into the knockout stages, El Kaabi’s potential to add multiple goals — especially with the support of Morocco’s dynamic midfield — makes him a serious contender for Africa’s top individual scoring accolade.
3. Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Also from the host side, Brahim Diaz has drawn significant attention for his continuous goal-scoring and playmaking contributions. The Real Madrid forward has consistently linked up play and provided decisive attacking moments for Morocco in every match he has played so far. His versatility allows him to influence the game both as a scorer and a creator, often arriving late into box positions to convert chances that catch defences off guard. Diaz’s dual role as an assist maker and goal scorer offers Morocco an added edge in tight matches, giving him a strong chance to compete for the Golden Boot if he maintains his goal involvements throughout the tournament.
4. Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Nigeria’s attacking unit is packed with talent, and Ademola Lookman stands out as one of the most promising offensive players in the Super Eagles’ lineup. Known for his quick feet, intelligent movement, and ability to find space, Lookman thrives in counter-attacking situations where his pace gives him clear openings to score. While traditionally more recognised as a winger or second striker, he has shouldered goal-scoring responsibilities for Nigeria in recent international performances. His versatility and ability to drift into goal-threat positions could see Lookman challenge for the Golden Boot if Nigeria advance deep into the latter stages of AFCON.
5. Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Rounding out the top five is Mohamed Salah, one of Africa’s most prominent football exporters and Egypt’s talisman in attack. Salah’s illustrious club career in Europe has seen him rack up goal after goal, and now he seeks to replicate that success on the continental stage with Egypt. Although he has not yet secured a Golden Boot in an AFCON finals tournament, Salah’s consistent scoring record and leadership as Egypt’s primary attacking threat make him a perennial candidate. His ability to score from open play, set pieces, and penalty situations ensures that Salah remains in the race, particularly if Egypt progress into the later rounds with increased scoring opportunities.
Race Dynamics and Predictions
While the top five contenders outlined above are favoured based on form and expectations, the Golden Boot chase at AFCON 2025 remains competitive. Players from teams expected to reach the knockout rounds often enjoy more games and therefore more opportunities to score, inherently boosting their chances. Hosts Morocco, for instance, benefit from both home support and an attacking setup conducive to high scoring, while traditional powers like Egypt and Nigeria possess offensive depth that can stretch defences.
It is also worth noting that tactical styles across different nations can influence individual scoring tallies. Teams that adopt a proactive, attacking philosophy generally present more goal opportunities for their key forwards. Conversely, a defensive or counter-attacking strategy might restrict individual scoring volumes but can favour well-placed players capable of turning limited chances into goals.