MLS Stars Set to Shine at 2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Excitement is mounting worldwide for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a month-long celebration of football that consistently delivers thrilling entertainment.

The 2025 version of this continental championship will be hosted in Morocco, kicking off on December 21 and extending into the following year until January 18, featuring 24 African nations battling for the prestigious title.

Since the 2026 MLS campaign won't commence until February, players heading to the tournament from American clubs won't miss any league matches, though it may affect their preseason training and physical condition before the upcoming season.

Below are the MLS athletes participating in the upcoming AFCON tournament.

Complete List of MLS Players at 2025 AFCON

Only eight MLS players will feature at AFCON, with Seattle Sounders contributing two representatives. Burkina Faso winger Georgi Minoungou made 32 appearances for the Sounders throughout 2025, including 23 MLS matches, and will join the tournament alongside fellow Burkina Faso international and San Jose Earthquakes striker Oussena Bouda.

Sounders left-back Nouhou Tolo is also Morocco-bound, hoping to achieve success with Cameroon. Nevertheless, pre-tournament turmoil involving their coach's refusal to step down and conflicting squad announcements could disrupt their campaign.

Former England international Wilfried Zaha, who earned two caps, will represent defending champions Ivory Coast. The Charlotte winger wasn't part of the victorious squad from two years prior but aims to help Les Éléphants claim consecutive championships.

LAFC standout Denis Bouanga experienced disappointment in the 2025 MLS Cup battle and will seek redemption at AFCON. However, Gabon has never advanced beyond the quarterfinals and appears unlikely to challenge the tournament favorites.

Mamadou Fofana established himself as a New England Revolution mainstay during his debut MLS season, and the center-back has an opportunity to shine at AFCON with Mali. They possess an outside chance at glory, unlike Zimbabwe defender Teenage Hadebe from Cincinnati, who will probably face an early tournament exit.

Mbekezeli Mbokazi recently joined Chicago Fire from Orlando Pirates, but the South African will immediately depart North America for Morocco.