CAF has released its official Best XI from the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, highlighting the players who delivered the strongest performances during the opening phase of the tournament in Morocco.
The Confederation of African Football selected a balanced team in a 4-3-3 formation, placing Nigeria coach Eric Chelle on the touchline after his side impressed with tactical discipline and attacking efficiency.
The lineup reflects consistency, influence, and decisive contributions rather than reputation alone, with players rewarded for their impact across the three group matches.
Morocco stands out as the most represented nation, with two players included in the XI, making the Atlas Lions the only country to achieve that distinction.
Noussair Mazraoui earned recognition at right-back after a series of commanding displays, combining defensive solidity with intelligent forward runs.
In midfield, Brahim Diaz justified his inclusion through creativity, control, and his ability to unlock defenses at crucial moments.
The attacking trio brings together proven quality and tournament-defining moments. Senegal captain Sadio Mané led from the front with goals, leadership, and relentless movement.
Ivory Coast winger Amad Diallo added pace and penetration, while Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez impressed with composure, vision, and decisive contributions in the final third.
Midfield balance defines this selection. Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman provided energy, vertical runs, and attacking threat from deeper positions.
Cameroon’s Carlos Baleba controlled tempo and disrupted opposition play with intelligence and physical presence, complementing Diaz’s technical influence.
At the back, CAF selected a physically strong and tactically aware central pairing. Burkina Faso’s Edmond Tapsoba delivered calm authority and clean distribution, while DR Congo’s Axel Tuanzebe combined power with defensive awareness.
On the left, Tunisia’s Ali Abdi offered consistency and discipline, completing a reliable defensive line.
Between the posts, Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy claimed the goalkeeper position after several assured performances, key saves, and strong command of his area, reinforcing his reputation as a dependable presence on the continental stage.
CAF’s selection closely mirrors several expert analyses from across the tournament, underlining the credibility of the choices made.
As the knockout phase begins, this Best XI serves as a snapshot of excellence from the group stage and sets a benchmark for players aiming to shine when the stakes rise.
CAF Best XI – Group Stage (4-3-3):
El Shenawy; Abdi, Mazraoui, Tuanzebe, Tapsoba; Brahim Diaz, Lookman, Baleba; Mané, Mahrez, Diallo
