Akwa names his Top 10 African players currently

The former Angola international avoided naming a single best player but instead offered a list of ten stars who, in his view, consistently perform at the highest level.

"Africa is bursting with talent. I wouldn't single out just one player, but here are the top ten who consistently deliver high-level performances," Akwa told Koora.  

"Ademola Lookman, Achraf Hakimi, Victor Osimhen, Mohamed Salah, Bryan Mbeumo, André Onana, Serhou Guirassy, Omar Marmoush, Rami Bensebaini, and Geny Catamo."

Turning his attention to Angola's group for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, the former Benfica and Al-Wakrah forward described it as both challenging and balanced.

"It's a tough but balanced group. Egypt and South Africa, as former champions, are the favourites, but Angola can spring a surprise just like in the previous edition," he said.

"The team that capitalises on its chances will qualify, because the level of competition is very close."

Akwá also highlighted the impressive growth of African football in recent years, attributing it to stronger domestic leagues and the increasing number of African players competing in top European clubs.

"African club competitiveness is rising every year thanks to increased investment, allowing new teams to challenge the established giants," he noted.

"For national teams, the growing presence of African players in major European leagues boosts the ability of less-heralded sides to compete with the best."

Akwa remains one of Angola's most iconic football figures, remembered for captaining the Palancas Negras during their historic debut at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany.