Maswanhise Earns CAF Rising Star Nod

20 January 2026

By Andile Vundla

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has named Zimbabwe international Tawanda Maswanhise among the most promising talents at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Motherwell forward caught the eye despite limited game time at the tournament. He scored a brilliant solo goal against South Africa and played a key role in the Warriors’ second goal, which forced an own goal from Bafana Bafana defender Aubrey Modiba.

Maswanhise started only one match and came on as a last minute substitute against Egypt, while he remained on the bench against Angola. Even so, his impact in the decisive Group B match was enough to earn continental recognition.

The Zimbabwe Football Association confirmed the honour in a congratulatory message, praising the 23-year-old for inspiring the nation and putting up a solid display which caught the eye of the continent.