TotalEnergies CAF U17 AFCON: The Best XI
They lit up the Moroccan pitches with their raw talent. After three weeks of intense competition, the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025 ended with a triumph for the host nation, but also marked the emergence of young stars.
Here is the Best XI of the 15th edition of the competition — a line-up that reflects the extraordinary reservoir of talent that African football possesses.
Chouaib Bellaarouch (Morocco)
GoalkeeperThe goalkeeper from the Mohammed VI Academy was one of the key players behind Morocco’s title win. Rock-solid on his line, dominant in the air, and decisive in the penalty shootout during the final against Mali, he deservedly walks away with the tournament’s Best Goalkeeper award.
Moncef Zekri (Morocco) – Right-back
Always accurate in his forward runs and precise with his crosses, Zekri constantly surged up and down his flank. His understanding with Ouazane during attacking phases often unsettled opposing defences.
Issouf Dabo (Burkina Faso) – Centre-back
Strong, disciplined, and always well positioned, Issa Dabo was a pillar of the Little Stallions’ defensive stability. Thanks to his reading of the game and composure in duels, the Burkinabè defender emerged as a natural leader — a standout figure in a Burkina Faso team that narrowly missed the podium but held their heads high.
Driss Aït Chiekh (Morocco) – Centre-back
Another explosive force on the flank, Aït Chiekh embodied Moroccan energy. Solid in defence and incisive going forward, he often provided an extra option in attack.
Vaboué Doumbia (Côte d'Ivoire) – Left-back
The Ivorian defender was both commanding in challenges and clean in distribution. His composure in high-pressure moments contributed significantly to the Elephanteaux’s strong run, finishing third after a dramatic win over Burkina Faso.
Issa Tounkara (Mali) – Defensive midfielder
The tireless anchor of Mali’s midfield, Issa Tounkara shone with his ability to intercept passes, win the ball, and launch attacks cleanly. Always well positioned and valuable during transitions, the captain of the Aiglonnets was one of the unsung heroes of Mali’s impressive campaign.
Abdellah Ouazane (Morocco) – Attacking midfielder
The playmaker. Elegant, composed, and blessed with a silky left foot, the Ajax Amsterdam player lit up the tournament with his talent. Named Player of the Tournament, he directed play with remarkable calmness and maturity.
Seydou Dembélé (Mali) – Attacking midfielder
The conductor of Mali’s game, Dembélé stood out for his vision and intelligence in tight spaces — a creator in the purest tradition of African number 10s.
Ilies Belmokhtar (Morocco) – Left winger
Fast, skilful, and inspired, Belmokhtar was a nightmare for opposing full-backs. Direct and quick, he was a constant threat while also contributing to the team effort.
Ashsaraf Tapsoba (Burkina Faso) – Right winger
Joint top scorer of the tournament with 7 goals, Tapsoba was Burkina Faso’s primary attacking weapon. Quick and clinical in the final touch, he showed he could make the difference at any moment.
Alynho Haidara (Ivory Coast) – Striker
Also joint top scorer with 7 goals, the lively Ivorian striker made his mark with sharp runs and cool finishing. His equaliser in the third-place play-off showed great strength and character.
