The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed its Best XI from the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, officially releasing the list on January 2, 2026, just after the group stage concluded.
The announcement also recognised Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle for his team’s outstanding performance.
The group stage, which wrapped up on December 31, 2025, produced 87 goals across 36 matches and saw 16 teams advance to the knockout rounds, including hosts Morocco, Nigeria, Algeria, and Egypt.
Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman was the sole Super Eagles player named to the Best XI, praised for his pace, creativity, and decisive goals in a perfect group-stage run.
Other standout performers include:
• Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) – Key playmaker and set-piece specialist.
• Sadio Mané (Senegal) – Experienced forward leading the attack with poise and finishing.
• Brahim DÃaz (Morocco) – Midfield engine, linking defence and attack seamlessly.
• Carlos Baleba (Cameroon) – Midfield dynamo, controlling tempo and disrupting opponents.
• Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast) – Quick, skillful winger stretching defences and creating chances.
• Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt) – Commanding goalkeeper with crucial saves.
CAF Best XI – Group Stage (4‑3‑3):
• Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)
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• Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco), Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo), Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Ali Abdi (Tunisia)
• Midfielders: Brahim DÃaz (Morocco), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), Carlos Baleba (Cameroon)
• Forwards: Sadio Mané (Senegal), Riyad Mahrez (Algeria), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast)
CAF highlighted the players for their decisive contributions, leadership, and influence in helping their teams advance.
Coach Eric Chelle’s tactical management of Nigeria earned him recognition as the group stage’s Best Coach.