As the dust settles on what might go down as the best African Nations Cup tournaments in history, the continent witnessed some spectacular performances from some players.
While we expected some big names like Riyad Mahrez, Mo Salah, and Sadio Mane to steal the show, they fell short in one way or the other. Even the Atlas Lions of Morocco who beat all odds to reach the World Cup semi-finals, failed to meet expectations.
The Ivory Coast gave us a good tournament that not only captivated locals but also gained a massive following from all corners of the globe. Hundreds of players turned up for their respective countries. The focus has since shifted to football leagues, where betting remains supreme. There are several betting markets for football betting besides picking the outright winner, including both teams to score, (BTTS). Here is BTTS explained so you understand it better.
As attention goes back to different leagues across the globe, we highlight the ones who made a mark and laid a solid claim to be in the overall AFCON first eleven.
GK – Ronwen Williams (South Africa)
The South Africa captain wowed fans with his solid performances at goal for Bafana Bafana, especially his heroic performance in the quarter-finals against Cape Verde. Not only did he save four out of five penalties, but he also made what many consider to be the save of the tournament in a crucial moment against Cape Verde.
RCB – Mothobi Mvala (South Africa)
At right-center back is Mothobi Mvala, whose imposing presence and versatility were instrumental in South Africa’s journey to the semi-finals, marking their first appearance at this stage since 2000.
LCB – Chancel Mbemba (DRC)
In the left-center back position, we have Chancel Mbemba, the Democratic Republic of Congo captain. Mbemba’s leadership and experience were pivotal in guiding his team to their best performance in recent AFCON showing.
CD – Troost Ekong (Nigeria)
The Super Eagles captain was deservedly named CAF’s player of the tournament, and therefore, automatically earns his spot in central defense. Troost Ekong’s stellar performance and three crucial goals helped lead Nigeria to a second-place finish.
CDF – Frank Onyenka (Nigeria)
Frank “The Tank” Onyeka stood out for Nigeria with his all-around performance, and was the choreographer of everything good for the Super Eagles.
LMF – Teboho Mokoena (South Africa)
Mokoena was an important player who dictated play for the AFCON 1996 champions, leading them to a bronze finish. He capped it all with a sumptuous free-kick in their 2-0 win over Morocco.
RMF – Frank Kessie (Ivory Coast)
Frank Kessie shone on the right side of midfield, playing a key role in Ivory Coast’s AFCON win. He may have started the tournament slowly, but his influence grew significantly as the team made it through all the knockout phases.
RW – Gelson Dala (Angola)
Dala was entertaining and impressive throughout the tournament, and the stand-out performer for Angola before their quarter-finals exit.
LW – Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Upfront, Ademola Lookman of Nigeria displayed both scoring ability and work ethic, contributing three goals and active involvement in all aspects of the game.
Forward – Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast)
Adingra was the breakout star of the tournament for the Ivorians, making decisive contributions at crucial moments, including a memorable showing in the final against Nigeria.
Forward – Emialino Nsue (Equatorial Guinea)
The 34-year-old was the tournament’s leading scorer with 5 goals, and the perfect man to lead the line for the AFCON 23 best 11. His team exited early, but he led the fairy tale for Equatorial Guinea.
Manager – Emerson Fae (Ivory Coast)
Managing this strong lineup is Emerson Fae, who guided Ivory Coast to victory with astute tactical changes and the reintroduction of experienced players into the squad.