The CAF Technical Study Group has selected the tournament Best XI, comprised of standout performers from several nations.
It comes after the TSG’s thorough analyses and evaluation of the tournament’s matches and trends from the first kickoff, culminating in their selection of such individuals as the best XI players.
Cote d’Ivoire, the newly-crowned African champions, have three representatives: defenders Ghislan Konan, and midfielders Jean Michael Seri and Franck Kessie, whose goal sealed the Ivorian victory.
Runners-up Nigeria also boast three selections in Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong and Ademola Lookman.
The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023 concluded on Sunday in epic fashion with hosts Cote d’Ivoire completing a thrilling comeback to defeat Nigeria in the final at Abidjan’s Alassane Ouattara Stadium.
South Africa, unexpected semi-finalists, earn nods for keeper Ronwen Williams, known for saving four penalties in one remarkable match, and midfielder Teboho Mokoena. DR Congo places two stars in Yoane Wissa and Chancel Mbemba, while top scorer Emilio Nsue of Equatorial Guinea rounds out the team.
The Best XI
Anchored by South African shot-stopper Ronwen Williams in goal, the backline features Nigeria’s Ola Aina and William Troost-Ekong, demonstrating defensive strength along with Cote d’Ivoire’s Ghislan Konan and DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba.
The midfield bursts with diverse playmaking ability – South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena supplies defensive cover while Cote d’Ivoire’s duo Jean Michael Seri and Franck Kessie orchestrate attacks.
Leading the forward charge are DR Congo’s Yoane Wissa paired with Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, their flair and finishing instincts complemented by Equatorial Guinea striker Emilio Nsue. Despite his side’s early exit, Nsue shone as the tournament’s leading marksman with 5 goals.
Goalkeeper:
Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
Defenders: Ola Aina (Nigeria), Ghislan Konan (Cote d’Ivoire), William Troost-Ekong (Nigeria), Chancel Mbemba (DR Congo).
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena (South Africa), Jean Michael Seri (Cote d’Ivoire), Franck Kessie
Strikers: Yoane Wissa (DR Congo), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), Emilio Nsue (Equatorial Guinea)
