CAF Names AFCON 2025 Best XI As Senegal Dominate List
.. Oshimen, Lookman, Onyemaechi included
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled its official team of the tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, recognizing standout performers from a competition that concluded with Senegal’s 1–0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco in the final on Sunday, January 18, 2026.
Tournament winners, Senegal dominated the selection, contributing the highest number of players to the Best XI after an impressive campaign that culminated in their second AFCON title. Nigeria were also represented; with three Super Eagles players earning places following strong individual performances.
Forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman were included after playing key roles in Nigeria’s third-place finish.
Osimhen registered four goals and two assists during the tournament, while Lookman contributed three goals and four assists, underlining their attacking influence throughout the competition.
Defender Bruno Onyemaechi completed Nigeria’s representation in the team, earning selection at left-back.
CAF’s defensive selections were largely drawn from the finalist nations, with Senegal and Morocco dominating the backline. The midfield was similarly influenced by Senegal’s presence, reflecting their consistency and control across the tournament.
Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was named the goalkeeper, while teammates Krépin Diatta, Mamadou Sangare and Idrissa Gueye were included in defensive and midfield roles.
Star forward Sadio Mané was named Player of the Tournament after leading the Teranga Lions to glory.
Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Rami Rabia also made the Best XI, while Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui earned selection despite the hosts’ defeat in the final.
Morocco, however, claimed several individual honours, with Brahim Díaz finishing as top scorer to win the Golden Boot, Yassine Bounou named Best Goalkeeper, and the hosts receiving the Fair Play Award.
The announcement brings the curtain down on a tournament marked by high drama, outstanding individual performances and Senegal’s reassertion as a dominant force in African football.
