African nations return to competitive action from 12 to 17 November for the third and fourth rounds of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with several leading internationals set to take centre stage.

Egypt captain Mohamed Salah will be one of the biggest attractions when the Pharaohs face Malawi. He has been included in the squad selected by new manager Ali Maher and will be joined by players including Omar Marmoush.

Morocco also have a high-profile player to watch in Achraf Hakimi. The Paris Saint-Germain full-back is expected to feature against Niger, while Youssef En-Nesyri returns to the squad. The Atlas Lions are aiming to maintain their perfect record in Group A.

Ghana welcome back Mohammed Kudus after the midfielder missed several recent fixtures because of injury. Jordan Ayew is also back, and both players will be expected to help revive the Black Stars’ campaign after defeats in their opening two matches.

Nigeria will need Ademola Lookman to take on greater attacking responsibility in the absence of Victor Osimhen. The Atalanta forward has been named in Eric Chelle’s squad for the two matches against Tanzania.

Cameroon, meanwhile, will look to Bryan Mbeumo for a decisive contribution against Namibia, despite Carlos Baleba being unavailable in midfield.

Ivory Coast have several players worth monitoring, including Yan Diomande. His performances have attracted increasing attention and the forward will have an opportunity to strengthen his reputation with the Elephants against Gambia.

Senegal’s Nicolas Jackson heads into the international break in strong form with Aston Villa. He has scored four goals and provided one assist in his past five club starts, making him one of the key players to watch when his side meet Sudan.

Burkina Faso have been boosted by the return of Issoufou Dayo, one of the notable selections made by Amir Abdou. The 35-year-old Wydad AC centre-back announced his international retirement after the last Africa Cup of Nations, but has now returned to the Stallions’ squad for their two matches against Mauritania.

Dayo’s experience could prove valuable in a defence that also includes Edmond Tapsoba and Nasser Djiga.

Algeria will introduce a new face in Abderrahmane Rebbach. The Deportivo Alaves winger has received his first call-up to the senior national team after impressing in La Liga and could make his debut for the Fennecs during their two matches against Togo.

Togo will also be watching for the possible debut of Lilian Brassier. The Eintracht Frankfurt defender has joined the squad after choosing to represent the country of his origins. He has been called up to strengthen a defence without Kevin Boma and will be closely monitored against Algeria.

The 10 players to watch are Mohamed Salah, Egypt; Achraf Hakimi, Morocco; Mohammed Kudus, Ghana; Ademola Lookman, Nigeria; Bryan Mbeumo, Cameroon; Yan Diomande, Ivory Coast; Nicolas Jackson, Senegal; Issoufou Dayo, Burkina Faso; Abderrahmane Rebbach, Algeria; and Lilian Brassier, Togo.