The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced its official Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), following Senegal’s 1–0 extra-time victory over host nation Morocco in Sunday’s final.
Unsurprisingly, champions Senegal dominated the lineup after an outstanding campaign that ended with their second AFCON title. Nigeria also enjoyed notable representation, with three Super Eagles players included in recognition of their impressive performances.
Forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman were selected after playing key roles in Nigeria’s third-place finish. Osimhen scored four goals and registered two assists, while Lookman added three goals and four assists, underlining their attacking impact.
Left-back Bruno Onyemaechi completed Nigeria’s trio in the team. However, the absence of Calvin Bassey has sparked debate, given his solid performances in the knockout rounds, including Nigeria’s semi-final clash with Morocco.
CAF’s defensive selections leaned heavily toward the finalists, with Senegal and Morocco dominating the backline. The midfield was also largely Senegalese, reflecting the team’s control and consistency throughout the competition.
In goal, Senegal’s Édouard Mendy was chosen, joined by compatriots Krépin Diatta, Mamadou Sangare, and Idrissa Gueye in defense and midfield roles. Meanwhile, Sadio Mané capped a stellar tournament by being named Player of the Tournament after leading the Teranga Lions to AFCON glory. Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Rami Rabia also made the Best XI, with Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui included despite the hosts’ final defeat. Morocco did secure individual accolades, with Brahim Díaz winning the Golden Boot, Yassine Bounou named Best Goalkeeper, and the hosts receiving the Fair Play Award.
CAF’s Best XI for AFCON 2025:
Édouard Mendy; Noussair Mazraoui, Rami Rabia, Bruno Onyemaechi, Krépin Diatta; Mamadou Sangare, Idrissa Gueye; Mohamed Salah, Ademola Lookman, Sadio Mané; and Victor Osimhen.
This announcement draws the curtain on a tournament marked by high drama, exceptional individual performances, and Senegal’s re-establishment as a dominant force in African football.