The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has already made history, setting a new benchmark as the most prolific edition ever. With 120 goals scored before Sunday’s final, the tournament has eclipsed the previous record of 102 goals achieved at AFCON 2019 in Egypt.
The milestone underlines the attacking intent, growing technical level, and self-belief shown by teams across the continent, as matches consistently delivered excitement and end-to-end action.
Star forwards and rising talents shine
Africa’s heavyweight nations have powered the scoring spree. Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire all displayed impressive depth in attack, while young prospects stepped up to rival established names in decisive moments.
Morocco’s Brahim Díaz currently tops the scoring chart with five goals, with Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen close behind on four each. With the third-place match and final still to come, the Golden Boot race is far from settled.
Bold tactics drive attacking football
AFCON 2025 has been marked by a clear tactical shift, as coaches opted for more adventurous approaches that gave attackers greater freedom to express themselves.
Dramatic comebacks, last-minute winners, and high-tempo clashes became hallmarks of the tournament, thrilling supporters from the group phase through to the knockout rounds.
The expanded 24-team format has added variety and competition without sacrificing quality, proving that a larger field can still produce entertaining, goal-heavy football.
Reaching 120 goals is about more than statistics. It reflects a transformation in African football, with players more adaptable, technically polished, and physically ready than ever before.
Teams are increasingly choosing creativity and attacking ambition over defensive caution, and the vibrant atmosphere inside Morocco’s packed stadiums only amplified the spectacle of a tournament defined by goals, energy, and evolution.
