AFCON 2025: CAF snubs Bafana Bafana in Group stage Best XI as French media picks Modiba

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage in Morocco delivered drama, goals, and standout performances from Africa’s finest. But one major talking point has emerged: CAF’s official Group Stage Best XI excluded all Bafana Bafana players, despite South Africa topping their group with impressive displays.

Interestingly, French publication L’Équipe disagreed, naming Aubrey Modiba in their Best XI for his consistency and tactical intelligence. The snub has sparked debate among fans and analysts, questioning whether CAF overlooked South Africa’s contribution.

Egypt vs South Africa match at the African Cup of Nations 2025 – Group B Mohamed Salah and Modiba during the match between Egypt vs South Africa in the African Cup of Nations 2025 – Group B at Grand Stade D Agadir , Agadir, Morocco Agadir Agadir Morocco Copyright: xMohamedxTageldinx

CAF’s Best XI: Who Made the Cut?

CAF’s selection leaned heavily on North and West African stars who dominated the group stage. The lineup included:

Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)
Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco), Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo), Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi (Morocco)
Midfielders: Brahim Díaz (Morocco), Carlos Baleba (Cameroon), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Forwards: Riyad Mahrez (Algeria), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), Sadio Mané (Senegal)
Coach: Eric Chelle (Nigeria)

Why Was Bafana Bafana Overlooked?

South Africa impressed in the group stage, finishing top of their group and conceding just one goal. Modiba’s versatility and defensive solidity were key to Hugo Broos’ tactical setup, earning him recognition from L’Équipe. Yet CAF’s omission raises questions about selection criteria, was it purely individual brilliance, or did team success matter?

L’Équipe’s Alternative XI

The French outlet’s inclusion of Modiba highlights a different perspective, valuing tactical discipline and consistency over star power. Their XI suggests that South Africa’s structured approach deserves more credit on the continental stage.

What’s Next?

With the knockout rounds underway, all eyes are on whether Bafana Bafana can turn this snub into motivation. Will Modiba and his teammates prove CAF wrong and push for a deep run in Morocco?

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