Senegal conquer AFCON Best XI as Mane reigns supreme

CAF have officially unveiled their Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, and it reads like a tribute to Senegal's dominance. Fresh off a dramatic 1-0 extra-time win over hosts Morocco in the final, the Teranga Lions supplied the backbone of the Best XI - and the soul of the tournament.

Senegal were the competition's gold standard from start to finish, and CAF's selection reflects that reality. Edouard Mendy takes his place between the posts, while Krepin Diatta, Mamadou Sangare and Idrissa Gueye anchor the defence and midfield. At the front of it all stands the symbol of Senegalese greatness: Sadio Mane, crowned Player of the Tournament after dragging his nation to a historic second AFCON crown.

Nigeria also left a strong imprint, placing three players in the Best XI after securing third place. Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman were unstoppable forces in attack - Osimhen finishing with four goals and two assists, Lookman contributing three goals and four assists. Bruno Onyemaechi completes the Super Eagles' representation at left-back.

One notable omission raised eyebrows: Calvin Bassey. The Fulham defender impressed throughout the knockout stages, including a commanding semi-final display against Morocco, yet CAF opted to look elsewhere.

Morocco's presence in the team is largely symbolic of their deep run. Noussair Mazraoui earns a place despite the final heartbreak, while Egypt's Mohamed Salah and Rami Rabia also feature, underlining their consistency across the tournament.

Individually, the Atlas Lions still had reasons to celebrate. Brahim Diaz finished as top scorer to claim the Golden Boot, Yassine Bounou was named Best Goalkeeper, and the hosts received the Fair Play Award - cold comfort after a final that slipped through their fingers.

The curtain falls on an AFCON filled with chaos, controversy and brilliance, but above all, with Senegal back on the throne, and Mane once again standing at the summit of African football.

TACTICAL ANALYSIS AFCON 2025:How Senegal clinched AFCON 2025 glory by outlasting Morocco in a tactical battle of control, pressing, and game-state management

CAF Team of the Tournament - AFCON 2025:

Edouard Mendy - Noussair Mazraoui, Rami Rabia, Bruno Onyemaechi, Krepin Diatta - Mamadou Sangare, Idrissa Gueye - Mohamed Salah, Ademola Lookman, Sadio Mane - Victor Osimhen.