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The technical committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has selected Moroccan internationals Brahim Díaz and Noussair Mazraoui in the Best XI of the group stage of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, currently being held in Morocco until January 18.
The two Moroccan stars were chosen in recognition of their standout performances during the three group-stage matches against Comoros, Mali, and Zambia. Díaz delivered a high-level display in an advanced midfield role, impressing with his energy, intelligent movement, and decisive passing, all of which played a key role in guiding the Atlas Lions to positive results and a confident qualification for the Round of 16.
In addition to his overall influence, Díaz scored three goals, finishing the group stage as joint top scorer alongside his compatriot Ayoub El Kaabi and Algerian international Riyad Mahrez.
Noussair Mazraoui, meanwhile, delivered an eye-catching performance at right-back, excelling both defensively and offensively. His consistency, defensive discipline, and continuous support in attacking phases earned him recognition as one of the standout players in his position during the group stage.
Explaining its choice of the Real Madrid midfielder, CAF’s technical committee highlighted Díaz’s intelligent positioning between the lines, his creativity, penetration, and technical precision. The committee also praised his dribbling ability, playmaking skills, and constant movement, noting that his impact within Morocco’s tactical setup went beyond possession statistics, thanks to his relentless energy and influence on the game.
Regarding the Manchester United defender, the CAF committee wrote that Mazraoui «confirmed his status as a top-level full-back on the right flank, showing intelligent movement, defensive discipline, and consistent contributions in build-up play.” His influence, the committee added, extended beyond his flank thanks to his strong reading of the game, helping Morocco assert greater control in midfield areas.
The Best XI also features several major names in African football, including Senegal’s Sadio Mané, Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, and Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez.
CAF Best XI – Group Stage
Goalkeeper:
Mohamed El Shenawy
Defenders:
Edmond Tapsoba
Axel Tuanzebe
Noussair Mazraoui
Ali Abdi
Midfielders:
Carlos Baleba
Brahim Díaz
Ademola Lookman
Forwards:
Sadio Mané
Amad Diallo
Riyad Mahrez
