Morocco 2025’s scoring frenzy makes it the highest-scoring AFCON tournament in history
AFCON record
Brahim Díaz has scored five goals for Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), becoming the tournament's top scorer and setting a record as the first player to score in five consecutive matches at a single AFCON finals, leading Morocco to the final against Senegal.
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The CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025 has etched its name into the annals of football history, surpassing previous scoring records and showcasing a tournament that celebrates not only competition but the spirit of African football.
With an astonishing 120 goals scored ahead of the weekend’s two matches, this edition has definitively claimed the title of the highest-scoring tournament ever, eclipsing the 102-goal benchmark set during the 2019 tournament in Egypt.
This remarkable achievement underscores a significant transformation within the game, as teams across the continent have embraced a bold attacking style, blending technical prowess with vibrant confidence.
Heavyweights like Senegal, Nigeria, Morocco, and the Ivory Coast have illuminated the tournament with a display of offensive depth. At the same time, emerging talents have captivated audiences by stepping into the spotlight alongside established stars.
Leading the scoring charts is Morocco’s Brahim Diaz with an impressive five goals, while famous names such as Egypt’s Mohammed Salah and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen trail closely behind with four goals each. As both Salah and Osimhen prepare for the decisive third-place playoff, the top scorer award remains tantalisingly open.
What sets AFCON 2025 apart is not merely the numbers but the thrilling storylines that have unfolded. From the opening matches, the tournament has seen coaches employ daring tactical formations, unleashing forwards in expansive systems that encourage fluidity and creativity.
With each game, fans have witnessed breathtaking comebacks and sensational late winners, keeping them on the edge of their seats through both the group and knockout stages.
The expansion of the tournament to 24 teams has often sparked debate among purists; however, Morocco 2025 has silenced critics by demonstrating how the increased depth of talent in African football translates into exciting, goal-laden encounters rather than stultifying play.
By the time Morocco 2025 reached the knockout stages, the tournament had already surpassed the 2019 record. It was a clear indication of the relentless attacking style that has defined the knockout rounds.
Morocco’s vibrant stadiums, filled with colour and fervour, have enhanced the spectacle, creating a pulsating atmosphere that has resonated from Tangier to Rabat. Yet the scoring surge is not solely attributable to the host nation; the collective efforts of participating teams have illuminated the rich tapestry of African football.
As AFCON 2025 nears its conclusion, it has already solidified its significance in football history, not only for surpassing a landmark goal tally but also for the profound statement it makes about the sport’s present and future trajectory across the continent.
The captivating performances and relentless pursuit of excellence reflect a new era, indicating that African football is ready to take on the world stage with audacity and flair.