)
Five emerging young footballers from across Africa are set to make a big impact at WAFCON 2024.
The 2024 TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco from July 5 to 26, 2025, is set to showcase a new generation of talent.
There is no doubt that some of these rising stars have already tasted the pressure of the CAF Women's Champions League or honed their skills playing professionally in Europe and North America.
However, there are others, barely out of their teens, who possess a remarkable maturity and confidence. In this article, Pulse Sports Kenya analyses the five young players poised to ignite the tournament according to CAF.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
)
12:30 - 30.06.2025
Esse Akida Scores Big as She Joins Trailblazing Sportswomen in Graduating from Women’s Leadership Programme
Harambee Starlets forward Esse Akida was among 12 top Kenyan sportswomen who graduated from the inaugural She Drives Sports Leadership Programme at the weekend.
1) Salma Marzouki
)
Salma Marzouki, 17, is a Tunisian midfielder who plays for Banque de l'Habitat. Despite being born after Tunisia's first WAFCON appearance, Salma Marzouki is expected to be a key player for the Carthage Eagles as they look to dominate the continental stage.
The youngster possesses exceptional vision and seamlessly transitions between defensive and attacking roles.
She can accelerate the tempo and readily take long-range shots, and her elegant style and remarkable confidence for her age make her a player to watch. Her powerful shots from distance could be game-changers for Tunisia.
2) Comfort Yeboah
)
Comfort Yeboah, at just 18, has been making waves in the world of football, and the TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations present another golden opportunity for her to shine.
The Ampem Darkoa defender from Ghana is certainly a force to be reckoned with. She has already established herself as a formidable defender, thanks to her exploits at the 2023 CAF Women's Champions League. She led Ampem Darkoa to a respectable fourth-place finish.
Her versatility, commanding presence, and composure on the ball are impressive. A natural leader, she was even tasked with taking penalties for her club, a rare responsibility for a central defender.
Yeboah is expected to be a stabilising force for Ghana, not only defending stoutly but also initiating attacks and dictating play.
3) Deborah Abiodun
)
The 21-year-old midfielder from Nigeria has established herself as an integral player for Dallas Trinity FC, and she hopes to be vital for the national team, the Super Falcons, in the continental assignment.
Nicknamed ‘Kanté’ for her tireless running on the pitch, Deborah Abiodun’s talent was recognised early, earning her a place in Nigeria's squad for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup.
Current coach Justin Madugu has reaffirmed his faith in her potential by including her in the WAFCON 2024 squad. Abiodun's ability to read the game, break up opposing attacks, and distribute the ball effectively will be crucial for Nigeria.
4) Jessica Modise
The 19-year-old forward for Gaborone United is a fearless player and a symbol of Botswana's ambitious new generation.
With her sharp instincts, quick pace, and intelligent playmaking, she netted five goals during qualifiers. Modise has a natural feel for the game, constantly demanding the ball and creating opportunities for her teammates.
Her hybrid style, blending goalscoring prowess with creative playmaking, could make her one of the tournament's breakout stars if Botswana can make a splash.
5) Ruth Bulala Nossa
)
Ruth Bulalal Nossa, 21, is one of the tournament’s hidden gems from DR Congo. Nossa is a talent unearthed by DR Congo coach Hervé Happy.
Playing for Sarcelles in France, Nossa brings dynamism, impact, and tactical intelligence to the midfield. Her European experience has honed her ability to control the tempo, exploit weaknesses, and accelerate the game when needed.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)