The second round of group-stage matches at the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations has offered a revealing snapshot of a tournament beginning to take shape, with goals shared across the continent and a small group of teams already separating themselves from the chasing pack.
Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez has set the early pace in front of goal, leading the scoring chart with three goals. The captain’s influence has been central to Algeria’s perfect start, with his composure and experience guiding the Desert Foxes to two wins and early qualification.
Behind him, the goals have come from a broad range of sources, underlining the competitive depth of the tournament. Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, Morocco’s Brahim Díaz, Tunisia’s Elias Achouri, Mali’s Lassine Sinayoko and Côte d’Ivoire’s Amad Diallo are all level on two goals, each playing a key role in their team’s progress.
Across the 24 matches played so far, 53 goals have been scored, averaging 2.21 per game. The figures point to a competition that is open without being reckless, with teams balancing attacking intent against the need for structure and control.
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Nigeria have stood out in that regard, combining fluid attacking play with authority on the ball. The Super Eagles lead the tournament for goals scored, shots on target and average possession, numbers that have carried them safely into the Round of 16 alongside Algeria and Egypt.
Creativity has been just as important as finishing. Lookman and Alex Iwobi have both supplied two assists for Nigeria, while Tunisia’s Hannibal Mejbri has also impressed as a creator, emphasising the growing influence of playmakers in tight group-stage contests.
Not all teams have found that balance. Botswana have endured a difficult opening, failing to score and conceding four goals while seeing little of the ball, a reminder of how quickly games can slip away at this level of competition.
With the final group matches agog, discipline and composure are likely to become decisive factors. Eighty-three yellow cards and three reds have already been shown, and as qualification scenarios tighten, AFCON once again promises a conclusion shaped as much by control and concentration as by moments of attacking brilliance.
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