Nigeria & Morocco dominate as CAF reveals AFCON 2025 team of the group stage

The Super Eagles of Nigeria and Morocco have had the highest entry in the AFCON 2025 team of the group stage in CAF’s latest announcement.

Nigeria has emerged as the dominant force of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations group stage, not just on the pitch, but in the official accolades. The official Team of the Group Stage at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been revealed, and it reflects a tournament shaped by flair, tactical discipline and standout individual performances across the continent.

In goal, Egypt captain Mohamed El Shenawy was rewarded for his authority and consistency between the posts, playing a key role in keeping his side competitive throughout the group phase.

The defensive line is a blend of composure and athleticism, with Morocco well represented through Noussair Mazraoui and Yahia Attiat-Allah, both of whom impressed with their balance of defensive solidity and attacking support.

Axel Tuanzebe’s calm reading of the game earned him recognition after anchoring DR Congo’s backline, while Edmond Tapsoba’s commanding presence and clean distribution stood out for Burkina Faso.

The midfield trio highlights the technical quality that defined the group stage. Cameroon’s Carlos Baleba was one of the most energetic performers, dictating tempo and winning key duels in the centre of the pitch. Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo brought creativity and incision, consistently unlocking defences with his movement and decision-making. Morocco’s Brahim Díaz added flair and end product, underlining his importance with decisive contributions that lifted the host nation’s performances.

Up front, the attack features some of Africa’s most established names. Riyad Mahrez was Algeria’s creative heartbeat, producing moments of class that reminded observers of his enduring influence on the continental stage. Senegal’s Sadio Mané combined leadership with decisive attacking play, once again showing his ability to rise to the occasion in major tournaments.

Completing the frontline is Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, whose explosive performances made him one of the defining players of the group stage, contributing goals, assists and a constant attacking threat.

Nigeria’s influence extends beyond the pitch, with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle named as the standout coach of the group stage. Under his guidance, Nigeria delivered one of the most convincing collective displays of the opening round, blending tactical organisation with attacking freedom.

Chelle’s inclusion means Nigeria are the only nation represented in both the playing XI and the coaching role, giving them the highest overall entry in the group-stage honours.

Read the Latest AFCON 2025 News Today and Get Fresh updates as they drop via X and Facebook