In a predictable outcome reflecting the disappointing performance of Arab teams in the Round of 16 of the African Cup of Nations, the Ideal Lineup, as announced by the global network “Sofa Soccer,” featured only Arab players.
Notably, Moroccan midfielder Aziz Bouhaddouz and Mauritanian defender Hassan Hawaibi emerged as significant surprises in this prestigious selection.
As Egypt, Morocco, and Mauritania bid farewell to the African championship in the Round of 16, with Algeria and Tunisia failing to secure qualification, the quarterfinals are set to unfold without any Arab representation, marking a departure from a longstanding tradition.
Nigeria, Angola, and South Africa dominated the lineup, contributing the highest number of players.
The Ideal Lineup for the African Cup of Nations Round of 16 includes:
Goalkeeper:
– Edouard Mendy (Senegal)
Defenders:
– Hassan Hawaibi (Mauritania)
– Motobe Mvala (South Africa)
– Calvin Bassey (Nigeria)
Midfielders:
– Teboho Mokoena (South Africa)
– Fredy (Angola)
– Aziz Bouhaddouz (Morocco)
– Ivan Salvador (Equatorial Guinea)
Forwards:
– Michak Elia (DR Congo)
– Nigeria’s goal-scoring hero against Cameroon, Ademola Lookman.
