AFCON 2015: CAF Reveals Team of the Tournament – But Leaves Out Player of the Competition
Following Côte d’Ivoire’s dramatic penalty shootout triumph over Ghana in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released its official Team of the Tournament. As expected, champions Ivory Coast dominate the selection – but one notable omission has raised eyebrows across the continent.
Despite being named Player of the Tournament, Christian Atsu of Ghana was not included in the official Best XI, a surprising decision that has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike. Atsu’s two goals and multiple standout performances were widely credited with powering Ghana’s run to the final.
Here is the CAF Team of the Tournament for AFCON 2015:
🧤 Goalkeeper:
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Aymen Mathlouthi (Tunisia) – A commanding presence in goal, Mathlouthi was a standout for Tunisia with key saves during the group stages and knockout rounds.
🛡️ Defenders:
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Aïssa Mandi (Algeria) – The full-back impressed with his energy and composure.
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Kolo Touré (Ivory Coast) – A rock in the heart of defence, providing leadership throughout the tournament.
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Jonathan Mensah (Ghana) – One of Ghana’s most consistent performers in defence, especially during the final.
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Henri Bedimo (Cameroon) – A solid presence at left-back, contributing defensively and offensively.
⚙️ Midfielders:
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Geoffrey Serey Dié (Ivory Coast) – Known for his tireless work rate and aggressive tackling.
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Yaya Touré (Ivory Coast) – The Ivorian captain stepped up at key moments, especially in the final.
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Sibusiso Vilakazi (South Africa) – A bright spark in South Africa’s midfield, despite their early exit.
🎯 Forwards:
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Gervinho (Ivory Coast) – A consistent threat on the wing with pace and creativity.
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André Ayew (Ghana) – Ghana’s top scorer and emotional leader, Ayew played a pivotal role in their journey to the final.
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Wilfried Bony (Ivory Coast) – A key figure in Ivory Coast’s attacking setup, Bony’s goals proved crucial.
🟨 Omission Sparks Debate:
While the list features many of the tournament’s top performers, the absence of Christian Atsu, who was also awarded Goal of the Tournament, has puzzled many. The Everton winger (on loan from Chelsea) was arguably Ghana’s most dangerous player throughout the tournament and was widely praised for his vision, dribbling, and flair.
With three Ivorians in the forward line and strong competition in midfield, Atsu’s exclusion may have come down to tactical choices in the CAF selection. Nonetheless, the debate over whether the “best player” of a tournament should always be in its “best XI” is now in full swing.
Ivory Coast’s win marks their second AFCON title, their first since 1992 – also won against Ghana on penalties.
