The official Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has been announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
According to reports, Senegal defeated hosts Morocco 1-0 following extra time in the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Sunday night, securing the Teranga Lions’ second continental title.
Senegal’s dominance in the Best XI was not surprise. Three Super Eagles players were honored for their contributions during a run that culminated in a third-place finish, while Nigeria also received much acclaim.
Nigeria’s inclusions are led by Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen. With his strength and agility, Osimhen frequently forced defenses out of position as he scored four goals and provided two assists.
Lookman, on the other hand, finished with three goals and four assists by fusing creativity with the finished product. Nigeria’s representation at left-back is completed by Bruno Onyemaechi.
However, the choice has generated controversy at home, especially in light of Calvin Bassey’s absence. Many were picking the defender for a spot because of his dominant performances in the knockout stages, including the semi-final match against Morocco.
CAF’s decisions at the back strongly favored the finalists. The majority of the defensive positions are occupied by Senegal and Morocco, and Senegal’s control over games during the tournament is also evident in the midfield.
•ouard Mendy, who has five clean sheets and the highest save percentage among goalkeepers who have played at least three games, replaces him between the posts.
Krépin Diatta, Mamadou Sangare, and Idrissa Gueye, Senegalese comrades who were essential to the champions’ balance, join Mendy. The Senegalese contingent is completed by Sadio Mané, who was crowned Player of the Tournament after setting the standard for offense and work ethic.
The Best XI also includes Rami Rabia and Mohamed Salah of Egypt, as well as Noussair Mazraoui of Morocco, despite the hosts’ defeat at the last minute. However, the Atlas Lions won the Fair Play Award, Yassine Bounou was named Best Goalkeeper, and Brahim Díaz won the Golden Boot, thus Morocco did not depart empty-handed.
AFCON 2025 CAF Team of the Tournament: Édouard Mendy, goalie
Defenders: Rami Rabia and Noussair Mazraoui
Bruno Kópin Diatta Onyemaechi
Midfielders: Idrissa Gueye and Mamadou Sangare
Forwards: Salah Mohamed
Lookman Ademola
Mané, Sadio
Osimhen Victor
