CAN 2025: The small revenge of Nicolas Jackson and Elias Achouri

The small revenge of Nicolas Jackson and Elias Achouri at CAN 2025

Elias Achouri/@FTF

While all eyes were on stars like Sadio Mané, Victor Osimhen and others to shine, it was ultimately two of the less-expected names who lit up this opening day of CAN 2025.

Nicolas Jackson and Elias Achouri both netted a brace, against Botswana (3-0) and Uganda (3-1) respectively, already taking the lead in the top scorers' race.

The Bayern Munich striker has often been the target of criticism over the past two or three seasons at Chelsea. Capable of both brilliance and blunders, the 24-year-old also endured a long goal drought with the Lions of Teranga, much to the frustration of fans.

Since the September break, the Banjul-born forward has reached a new level. He has scored six goals in his last six matches for Senegal—and he has no plans to stop now, after managing just one goal in his first 20 caps.

A few hours later, Elias Achouri followed suit, scoring a double to give Tunisia victory over Uganda. These were his 4th and 5th goals in 25 international appearances.

The FC Copenhagen winger hasn't always convinced the Tunisian faithful. Criticized for his performances in recent matches, he responded in the best possible way—despite being deployed on the right wing, rather than his preferred left where he feels more at home.

Nicolas Jackson and Elias Achouri: a shared destiny. Two players who have silenced their critics, but who must now confirm their status in the coming games to become reliable assets for their national teams.