The Confederation of African Football has officially released its Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, recognising the outstanding performers who left a mark throughout the competition. The announcement comes after Senegal’s 1-0 extra-time triumph over hosts Morocco in the highly competitive final on Sunday, January 18, 2026, a match that showcased the intensity and quality of African football at its best.
The CAF selection reflects Senegal’s remarkable dominance across the tournament, with the champions contributing the highest number of players to the Best XI. In addition, Nigeria’s attacking duo, Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, earned well-deserved spots following their consistent and high-impact performances, underlining their importance to the Super Eagles’ campaign in the tournament.
Nigeria concluded the competition in third place, cementing their status as one of the continent’s most competitive sides. Both Osimhen and Lookman were among the most prolific attackers, with Osimhen recording four goals and two assists, and Lookman contributing three goals and four assists, showcasing their key roles in Nigeria’s offensive strategy and ability to influence games at the highest level.
Nigeria well represented in attack
Despite Nigeria’s strong overall showing, defender Calvin Bassey was notably absent from the final CAF Best XI selection. His omission came as a surprise to many observers, particularly after his commendable performances in the knockout stages, including a standout display in the semi-final against Morocco, where his defensive contributions were significant in keeping Nigeria competitive.
CAF’s selection leaned heavily towards defenders from the tournament’s finalists, Senegal and Morocco, who provided most of the backline, reflecting their defensive solidity and consistency throughout the competition. Nigeria’s sole defensive representative in the team was Bruno Onyemaechi, who was selected at left-back, highlighting his consistent performances and ability to balance defensive duties with support for the attack.
The midfield section of the Best XI was dominated by Senegalese players, emphasizing their control, creativity, and consistency throughout the tournament, and illustrating why Senegal emerged as champions and a dominant force in African football once again.
Senegal dominate awards and selection
Senegal’s goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was named in goal for the Best XI, reflecting his reliable performances and critical saves that kept his team in contention throughout the tournament. Midfielders Krépin Diatta, Mamadou Sangare, and Idrissa Gueye were also included for their exceptional contributions, both defensively and in controlling the tempo of matches, demonstrating the depth and quality of Senegal’s squad.
Additionally, Sadio Mané was awarded Player of the Tournament after leading Senegal to their second AFCON title, capping a remarkable individual and team campaign. His performances throughout the competition were pivotal, combining leadership, creativity, and decisive actions in key moments.
Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Rami Rabia earned spots in the Best XI, highlighting their outstanding performances for their national team, while Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui was included despite the hosts falling just short in the final. Morocco, however, still claimed several individual awards, with Brahim Díaz finishing as the tournament’s top scorer and winning the Golden Boot with five goals, Yassine Bounou named Best Goalkeeper, and the team receiving the Fair Play Award for their conduct throughout the tournament.
CAF AFCON 2025 team of the tournament
The final CAF AFCON 2025 Best XI features: Édouard Mendy, Noussair Mazraoui, Rami Rabia, Bruno Onyemaechi, Krépin Diatta; Mamadou Sangare, Idrissa Gueye; Mohamed Salah, Ademola Lookman, Sadio Mané; and Victor Osimhen.
This selection marks the conclusion of a tournament defined by intense competition, remarkable individual displays, and Senegal’s reaffirmation as one of Africa’s premier footballing nations, closing an AFCON edition that will be remembered for its drama, quality, and memorable performances across the continent.