The Best XI of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Group Stage
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage in Morocco has been a vibrant celebration of footballing excellence, showcasing some of the continent’s most talented players. From goalkeepers to forwards, these individuals have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and consistency throughout the tournament. The following Best XI highlights the standout performers who have shaped the narrative of the group stage and set the tone for the upcoming knockout rounds.
Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)
At 36 years old, Mohamed El Shenawy has proven that age is no barrier to greatness. As Egypt’s captain, he played a pivotal role in guiding his team through a tough group stage with composure and precision. His commanding presence between the posts, combined with his ability to read the game and make crucial saves, made him a cornerstone of Egypt’s defense. El Shenawy’s experience and leadership were instrumental in keeping opposition teams at bay, reminding fans that seasoned goalkeepers can still be decisive on the continental stage.
Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco), Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo), Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco)
Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco)
Mazraoui has solidified his reputation as one of Africa’s top fullbacks. His intelligent positioning, technical skills, and defensive discipline made him a vital part of Morocco’s backline. Beyond defense, his ability to contribute to attacks with pace and vision was key in helping Morocco control games. His tactical awareness and influence in building from the back were integral to the team’s success.
Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo)
Tuanzebe stood out with his physicality and composure under pressure. He was a reliable presence in the DR Congo defense, rarely caught out of position and dominant in aerial duels. His ability to anticipate threats and shut down attacks before they developed was crucial for his team. Tuanzebe’s maturity and skill earned him a well-deserved spot in the Best XI.
Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso)
As Burkina Faso’s captain, Tapsoba was an imposing force in central defense. His anticipation and one-on-one defending were exceptional, and he played a key role in building play from the back. Tapsoba’s composed demeanor and sharp decision-making were vital to his team’s success in tight matches. His leadership at the back was exemplary.
Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco)
On the left flank, El Abdi provided consistent and reliable performances. Rarely beaten by opposition wingers, his defensive discipline ensured Morocco maintained balance in defense while also contributing to their attacking moves. His steady performances allowed Morocco to dominate possession and neutralize threats.
Midfielders: Brahim Diaz (Morocco), Carlos Baleba (Cameroon), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Diaz was one of the most exciting players of the group stage. Positioned just behind the strikers, his creativity, vision, and technical ability shone through. His dribbling and movement constantly disrupted defensive blocks, and he was often the catalyst for Morocco’s attacking plays. Diaz’s ability to unlock defenses with his passing and drive made him indispensable to the Moroccan midfield.
Carlos Baleba (Cameroon)
Baleba was a revelation for Cameroon, combining physicality with tactical intelligence. His powerful runs, tireless work rate, and composure on the ball were standout qualities. He played a key role in both defensive recovery and offensive transitions, providing balance to the Cameroon midfield. His ability to cover large areas of the pitch and break up attacks made him one of the most impactful players of the group stage.
Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Lookman showcased his versatility as a forward-turned-midfielder. His direct running, creativity, and eye for goal made him a constant threat. His movement off the ball was a nightmare for defenders, and his intelligence in finding space and delivering key passes was vital to Nigeria’s success. Lookman’s performances highlighted his value as one of the most dangerous players of the group stage.
Forwards: Riyad Mahrez (Algeria), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
Mahrez was a masterclass in playmaking and leadership. His vision, passing, and composure under pressure made him the central figure in Algeria’s attack. Whether it was a key pass or a perfectly executed free-kick, Mahrez’s presence was felt in every match. His ability to dictate the tempo and create opportunities ensured Algeria remained a formidable force in the tournament.
Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast)
Diallo was a dynamo for Ivory Coast, using his explosive pace and unpredictability to create chaos in opposition defenses. His ability to take on defenders and produce moments of brilliance in the final third made him a key player for the Ivorian side. Diallo’s flair and creativity injected energy into every attack, making him one of the standout attacking players of the group stage.
Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Mané remained a constant threat in even the tightest matches. His pressing, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing meant that defenders had to be alert at all times. His leadership on the field was clear, as he led by example, often scoring or assisting in crucial moments. Mané’s relentless work ethic and ability to make the difference in big moments were key to Senegal’s success.
Coach: Eric Chelle (Nigeria)
Under Eric Chelle’s guidance, the Nigeria national team displayed tactical brilliance and a cohesive structure. His approach emphasized a solid defensive setup, quick transitions, and giving attacking players the freedom to express themselves. Chelle’s clear vision and consistent choices allowed Nigeria to perform at their best during the group stage, showcasing a balanced style of play. His ability to maximize the potential of his squad and build a collective identity was one of the highlights of the group stage.
Conclusion
The Best XI of AFCON 2025’s group stage highlights the diversity and quality of African football. With experienced leaders like El Shenawy and Mahrez, combined with the youthful energy of Diallo and Baleba, these players have set the stage for a thrilling knockout phase. Their performances not only reflect individual brilliance but also the growing strength of African football on the global stage.
