Tylon Smith among the youngsters to watch on Africa’s biggest stage

As anticipation builds ahead of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025, a new generation of African talent is preparing to step into the spotlight. 

Among the youngsters set to command attention is South African defender Tylon Smith, whose rapid rise has earned him a maiden senior national team call-up and placed him firmly among the emerging players to watch at Africa’s biggest sporting event, where global eyes will be fixed on the continent’s finest and emerging stars.

Smith, who was nominated for Young Player of the Year at the CAF Awards is gradually making a name for himself through consistent performances, marking him as one of Africa’s most promising young defensive talents. 

His rise into the continental spotlight began earlier this year at the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, where he played a pivotal role in Amanita’s first ever continental title triumph. 

In the wake of continental success, Smith took the next step in his development by moving to Europe, joining English side Queens Park Rangers. The transition to English football has exposed him to a faster tempo and heightened tactical demands, further refining his defensive intelligence.

Now, with a senior national team call-up secured, Smith stands on the threshold of African football’s grandest stage as the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON represents a different level of challenge, with packed stadiums, intense rivalries and a global audience watching Africa’s best compete. 

The 20-year-old will have to work extra hard to get the nod from Hugo Broos who has steadily built a strong Bafana Bafana that finished third at the last edition.