The Best XI of Players from AFCON Countries so far this Season

African football has plenty of outstanding players right now, so picking the best XI is highly debatable. My selection considers current club form, international performances, quality, consistency and the way each player would work within a balanced team.

I’ve gone for a 4-3-3, with several familiar names alongside a few players who deserve greater recognition. From Morocco’s established stars to Nigeria and Egypt’s attacking threats, this is my best XI of players from AFCON countries as of September 2026. This September selection goes beyond the tournament. Current club form matters too.

Who is in the best form after the World Cup?

Goalkeeper and defence

GK: Yassine Bounou, Al-Hilal, Morocco

Bounou keeps the gloves after another strong international year. His penalty saves helped Morocco reach the AFCON final, while he remains Al-Hilal’s goalkeeper. His distribution suits a side building from the back.

RB: Achraf Hakimi, Paris Saint-Germain, Morocco

Hakimi is the clearest right-back choice. PSG have him in their 2026/27 squad. Pace, crossing and recovery speed give him influence.

CB: Ousmane Diomande, Nottingham Forest, Ivory Coast

Diomande gives the defence athleticism and strength. Forest signed him from Sporting in August on a four-year deal. His recovery pace suits a high line.

CB: Edmond Tapsoba, Bayer Leverkusen, Burkina Faso

Tapsoba brings composure beside Diomande. Leverkusen appointed him captain before the new campaign, and he has started regularly. His positioning makes him the organiser.

LB: Rayan Aït-Nouri, Manchester City, Algeria

Aït-Nouri gives the team an attacking left-back. The Manchester City man can carry the ball inside or attack the outside channel, creating different angles in attack.