AFCON 2025: Nigeria set early pace as Mahrez tops scoring chart

Nigeria have underlined their title ambition after two AFCON 2025 group rounds, while Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez leads the tournament’s scoring chart.

Mahrez has struck three goals to top the scorers’ list, playing a decisive role in Algeria’s perfect start and early qualification for the knockout phase.

A cluster of stars trail on two goals, highlighting the tournament’s attacking depth across the continent.

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 have all delivered crucial contributions.

The competition has produced 53 goals from 24 matches, averaging 2.21 per game, reflecting a blend of attacking intent and tactical organisation.

Nigeria lead the attacking metrics with five goals, 12 shots on target and an average 61 per cent possession, the highest so far.

That efficiency has secured early Round-of-16 qualification for the Super Eagles, alongside Egypt and Algeria.

Nigeria’s creativity has also stood out, with Lookman and Alex Iwobi recording two assists each, matching Tunisia’s Hannibal Mejbri.

Botswana, however, have struggled, conceding four goals, scoring none and averaging just 32 per cent possession after two games.

Discipline has been tested, with referees issuing 83 yellow cards and three red cards as tension rises across the groups.

Suspensions may yet shape the final standings as teams chase qualification in the decisive last round.

With goals flowing and margins tightening, the final group matches promise contests defined by composure as much as flair, a familiar AFCON pattern as the knockout stage looms.