AFCON 2015: CAF Reveals Team of the Tournament – But With a Twist
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially unveiled its Team of the Tournament following the conclusion of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations — and the selection has sparked both praise and confusion.
Ghana’s Christian Atsu, who was named the tournament’s Best Player, headlines the all-star XI. The 23-year-old midfielder was a standout performer for the Black Stars and played a pivotal role in guiding his side to the final.
As expected, the newly crowned champions, Ivory Coast, dominate the list with no fewer than seven players named in the selection. Their representation includes key figures such as Yaya Touré, Serge Aurier, and Wilfried Bony, reflecting the team’s overall quality and consistency throughout the competition.
Ghana, runners-up after a dramatic penalty shootout in the final, see three of their own make the lineup, including André Ayew and full-back Harrison Afful. DR Congo, who secured a third-place finish, are represented by winger Yannick Bolasie and veteran goalkeeper Robert Kidiaba.
However, controversy surrounds the announcement due to an apparent oversight: the squad includes two goalkeepers, resulting in a 12-man “starting XI” — an anomaly that has puzzled fans and observers alike. Both Sylvain Gbohouo of Ivory Coast, who missed the final due to injury, and 39-year-old Kidiaba, playing in his last AFCON tournament, are listed in the team.
This unusual selection has raised eyebrows, as traditional football lineups feature 11 players, including just one goalkeeper. CAF has yet to provide an official explanation for the inclusion of both shot-stoppers.
Team of the Tournament (as announced by CAF):
Goalkeepers:
Sylvain Gbohouo (Ivory Coast)
Robert Kidiaba (DR Congo)
Defenders:
Serge Aurier (Ivory Coast)
Harrison Afful (Ghana)
Kolo Touré (Ivory Coast)
Midfielders:
André Ayew (Ghana)
Yaya Touré (Ivory Coast)
Max Gradel (Ivory Coast)
Yannick Bolasie (DR Congo)
Gervinho (Ivory Coast)
Forwards:
Christian Atsu (Ghana)
Wilfried Bony (Ivory Coast)
Despite the minor controversy, the selection largely reflects the standout performers of the tournament. With Ivory Coast reclaiming the continental crown after a 23-year wait, their players have rightly received much of the spotlight.
Still, questions remain over CAF’s process and communication — especially as fans continue to debate the logic of naming 12 players in what is supposed to be a traditional best XI.
