Stats platform “Sofascore” has unveiled its ideal starting XI for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations round of 16, following the completion of the knockout ties that saw Algeria beat DR Congo 1–0 and Ivory Coast sweep Burkina Faso 3–0.
The line-up reflects standout individual displays and includes a strong Egyptian presence, alongside a single Moroccan player.
In goal, Diarra of Mali leads the back line with a rating of 8.0. The three-man defence features Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey (7.6), Morocco’s Nayef Aguerd (8.0) and Egypt’s Yasser Ibrahim, who earned an impressive 9.1 after his performance in the 3–1 extra-time win over Benin.
The midfield is packed with energy and creativity: Egypt’s Marwan Attia (8.5), Senegal’s Gueye (8.8), and Ivorian duo Diomande (8.8) and Amad Diallo (8.6) provide balance between steel and flair. In attack, Nigeria’s Adams (9.2) partners his countryman Ademola Lookman, who grabbed a perfect 10, while Egypt’s Mohamed Salah completes the front line with a rating of 8.8.
The quarterfinals will now pit Egypt against Ivory Coast, Cameroon against Morocco, Algeria against Nigeria, and Mali against Senegal in mouthwatering clashes.
