1. Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon) – 18 Goals
Samuel Eto’o is the all-time leading goal scorer in AFCON history with 18 goals in 29 appearances across six tournaments (2000–2010). The Cameroonian legend won the tournament twice (2000 and 2002) and was named Player of the Tournament in 2008.
Eto’o’s goals came in crucial moments. He scored in the 2000 final against Nigeria and was the top scorer in 2006 and 2008 with 5 goals each. His pace, power, and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders. Eto’o played for Cameroon with passion and pride, and his record is likely to stand for many years. His AFCON success was part of a career that included three Champions League titles and multiple league wins in Europe.
2. Laurent Pokou (Ivory Coast) – 14 Goals
Laurent Pokou holds the record for the most goals in a single AFCON tournament with 8 in 1970. The Ivorian striker scored 14 goals in just two tournaments (1968 and 1970). His 6 goals in a single match against Ethiopia in 1970 remain a record.
Pokou was known for his speed and finishing. He helped Ivory Coast reach the semi-finals in 1968 and the final in 1970. His performances earned him the nickname “The Man of Ethiopia.” Pokou’s record stood for decades and is a testament to his brilliance in an era when AFCON was less frequent.
3. Rashidi Yekini (Nigeria) – 13 Goals
Rashidi Yekini is Nigeria’s all-time leading goal scorer and third on the AFCON list with 13 goals in 5 tournaments (1984–1994). He was the top scorer in 1992 and 1994, helping Nigeria win the title in 1994.
Yekini’s most famous moment came at the 1994 World Cup, but his AFCON performances were equally impressive. He scored 5 goals in 1994, including in the final against Zambia. His physical presence and finishing made him a feared striker. Yekini’s legacy in Nigerian football is immense.
4. Hassan El-Shazly (Egypt) – 12 Goals
Hassan El-Shazly scored 12 goals in three tournaments (1963–1970). The Egyptian striker was the top scorer in 1963 with 6 goals and helped Egypt win the title in 1959 (though he didn’t score in the final tournament).
El-Shazly’s record stood for decades and is a testament to his consistency. He was known for his heading ability and positioning. Egypt’s success in the 1950s and 1960s was built around players like El-Shazly.
5. Hossam Hassan (Egypt) – 11 Goals
Hossam Hassan scored 11 goals in eight tournaments (1986–2006). The Egyptian legend won the AFCON three times (1998, 2006, 2008 as a player-manager) and was known for his leadership and goalscoring.
Hassan’s longevity was remarkable—he played until he was 39. He scored crucial goals in finals and semi-finals, and his partnership with his brother Ibrahim was legendary. Hassan is Egypt’s all-time leading goal scorer and a national hero.
6. Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast) – 11 Goals
Didier Drogba scored 11 goals in five tournaments (2006–2013). The Ivorian legend led his country to the final in 2006 and 2012 but never won the title. He was the top scorer in 2012 with 6 goals.
Drogba’s power and finishing made him a dominant force. His performances for Ivory Coast were full of passion, and he is remembered for his leadership during difficult times in the country. Drogba’s AFCON goals are part of a career that included multiple Premier League titles and a Champions League win.
7. André Ayew (Ghana) – 10 Goals
André Ayew has scored 10 goals in seven tournaments (2008–2022). The Ghanaian captain led his country to the final in 2015 and has been a consistent performer. His goals have come in crucial moments, and he is one of the most experienced players in AFCON history.
8. Kalusha Bwalya (Zambia) – 10 Goals
Kalusha Bwalya scored 10 goals in four tournaments (1986–1996). The Zambian legend led his country to the final in 1994 and was named African Player of the Year in 1988. His skill and leadership made him a superstar.
9. Manucho (Angola) – 9 Goals
Manucho scored 9 goals in three tournaments (2008–2012). The Angolan striker was the top scorer in 2010 with 5 goals and helped Angola reach the quarter-finals.
10. Odion Ighalo (Nigeria) – 9 Goals
Odion Ighalo scored 9 goals in three tournaments (2013–2019). He was the top scorer in 2019 with 5 goals, helping Nigeria win bronze. His performances in Egypt were outstanding.
Other Notable Goal Scorers
Players like Vincent Aboubakar (Cameroon, 9 goals), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana, 8 goals), and Mohamed Salah (Egypt, 8 goals) have also made their mark. Salah’s goals in recent tournaments have been crucial for Egypt, and he is likely to climb the list.
The Evolution of AFCON Goal Scoring
The AFCON has evolved over the years. Early tournaments had fewer teams and matches, making goal records harder to break. The expansion to 24 teams in 2019 has increased scoring opportunities. The tournament is now held every two years, giving players more chances to add to their tally.
The top goal scorers come from Africa’s most successful nations—Cameroon, Egypt, Nigeria, and Ivory Coast. The tournament has produced legends who have gone on to succeed in Europe, raising the profile of African football.
The Future of AFCON Goal Scoring
With the tournament expanding and more competitive, new records could be set. Players like Victor Osimhen, Mohamed Salah, and Sadio Mané are still active and could climb the list. The next generation—players like Lamine Yamal (though not African) and African talents like Ibrahim Sangaré and Mohammed Kudus—will carry the torch.
The top goal scorers in Africa Cup of Nations history are legends of the game. They have inspired generations and shown the world the talent Africa has to offer. The AFCON is more than a tournament—it is a celebration of African football, and these players are its greatest heroes.
Disclaimer: These articles are for general entertainment and inspiration only—not professional analysis or official advice. Goal tallies and rankings are based on official AFCON records as of 2025; opinions expressed are subjective. Consult reliable sources for in-depth research. See our full Disclaimer.
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