2024 Women's AFCON: Rising Stars to Watch

They are arriving quietly. However, they intend to shine at this TotalEnergies CAF Women's Africa Cup of Nations, Morocco 2024. Some have already experienced the demands of the CAF Women’s Champions League, while others have crossed borders to play professionally in Europe or North America. A few, barely out of their teens, already display a lucidity and confidence that commands respect. 

At the TotalEnergies Women's AFCON 2024, five young players have all the ingredients to set the stands ablaze, turn the tide during games, and challenge the status quo. Their youth, freshness, and audacity could well make this tournament a memorable edition.

Comfort Yeboah (18, Defender, Ampem Darkoa – Ghana)

She never backs down. Better yet, she moves forward. At 18, Comfort Yeboah is already a rock. Unveiled during the 2023 CAF Women's Champions League where she led Ampem Darkoa to a promising fourth-place finish, the Ghanaian impressed with her versatility, her authority, and... her composure on the ball. But Yeboah is also a leader. Proof of this is that she was the designated player to take penalties in Côte d'Ivoire. A rarity for a central defender. In an ambitious Ghanaian national team, she could be the stabilizing element, the one who doesn't just defend, but also knows how to build, direct, and punish.

Jessica Modise (19, forward, Gaborone United – Botswana)

Jessica Modise doesn't know the word "complex." The Gaborone United forward, barely 19, embodies the ambitious new generation of the Mares. Sharp, quick and intelligent in her playmaking, she scored five goals during the qualifiers. Modise is a player with a feel for the game. She does not wait for the ball, she calls for it. And above all, she knows how to make others shine. Her style is reminiscent of the great "9 and a half" players, those hybrid players who are both goalscorers and creators. On Moroccan pitches, she could become one of the tournament's sensations, provided Botswana manages to pull off a surprise.

Salma Marzouki (17, Midfielder, Banque de l'Habitat – Tunisia)

She was not yet born during Tunisia's first participation in the WAFCON. Yet, Salma Marzouki will be one of the driving forces behind the 2024 Carthage Eagles. At just 17 years old, the Banque de l'Habitat midfielder has already demonstrated impressive vision. Acting as a sentinel or a relay player as needed, she streamlines transitions, speeds up the game, and never hesitates to try her luck from distance. Her body language is reminiscent of the most elegant midfielders, while her confidence seems disconcerting at her age. One to watch closely: her long-range shots can change the outcome of a match.

Deborah Abiodun (21, Midfielder, Dallas Trinity FC– Nigeria)

"They call her Kanté… because she runs everywhere." This nickname for Deborah Abiodun speaks volumes about her reputation. A tireless midfielder, the 21-year-old Nigerian has carved out a niche for herself in the Dallas Trinity squad. And she intends to become one of the pillars of the Super Falcons in this edition. Revealed at a young age, she had already been named to coach Randy Waldrum's list for the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023 in Australia and New Zealand. A rare show of confidence at her age, in a squad as experienced as Nigeria's. Two years later, Justin Madugu, now in charge of the national team, reaffirmed his belief in her potential by calling her up for the WAFCON 2024. A strong sign, confirming that Abiodun is establishing herself as a key player in the future of the Super Falcons. Trained in the Rivers Angels' school of physical and demanding play, Abiodun doesn't just sweep the ball. She anticipates, she directs, and she distributes. Her ability to read the game makes her a key player in the Nigerian midfield. She will undoubtedly be tasked with breaking the opposing lines but also with cleanly passing the ball, a role that will require stamina... and a lot of composure.

Ruth Bulala Nossa (21, midfielder, Sarcelles – DR Congo)

She's one of the tournament's best-kept secrets. Ruth Bulala Nossa, 21, is a talent spotted by Hervé Happy, head coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo, during his extensive international scouting. Trained in France, where she currently plays for Sarcelles, the Congolese player is a true ray of sunshine in midfield. Nossa brings volume, impact, and, above all, a rare tactical intelligence. She reads spaces like few other players her age. Thanks to her European experience, she masters weak moments, knows how to set up the game when needed, and is not afraid to accelerate when the opportunity presents itself.