Moroccan Internationals Brahim Diaz and Noussair Mazraoui Named in AFCON Group Stage Best XI
The Confederation of African Football’s (CAF) Technical Committee has selected Moroccan internationals Brahim Diaz and Noussair Mazraoui for the Best XI of the Africa Cup of Nations group stage. The tournament is currently underway in Morocco and will conclude on January 18th.
Selection Based on Performance
The two Moroccan stars earned their spots due to their outstanding performances in the first three group stage matches against Comoros, Mali, and Tanzania. Brahim Diaz showcased a high level of play in the attacking midfield, demonstrating vitality, intelligent movement, and decisive passes that were instrumental in guiding the Moroccan national team to positive results and securing their progression to the Round of 16.
Diaz: Goals and Influential Presence
In addition to his technical performance, Brahim Diaz scored three goals during the group stage, making him the top scorer alongside his compatriot Ayoub El Kaabi and Algerian international Riyad Mahrez.
Mazraoui’s Brilliance on the Right Flank
Noussair Mazraoui, meanwhile, made a notable impact at right-back, excelling both defensively and offensively. He maintained a strong presence and consistently supported attacking plays, establishing himself as one of the best players in his position during the group stage.
CAF Technical Committee’s Justification
The Technical Committee justified Brahim Diaz’s selection by highlighting his excellent positioning between the lines, his ability to provide creativity, penetration, and technical precision. They also noted his dribbling skills, playmaking abilities, and ability to involve teammates, along with his constant dynamism that disrupted opposing defenses. The committee emphasized that his influence extended beyond possession, thanks to his continuous involvement in the game.
Regarding Noussair Mazraoui, the CAF Technical Committee explained that from the right flank, the player confirmed his status as a top-tier full-back, demonstrating intelligent movement and defensive discipline, while consistently providing solutions in build-up play. His impact, they stated, transcended his position due to his excellent reading of the game and his contribution to enhancing the Moroccan national team’s midfield dominance.
Ideal Lineup Features Prominent Names
The Best XI features prominent names in African football, including Sadio Mane (Senegal) and Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), alongside Egyptian goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy and Algerian international Riyad Mahrez.
AFCON Group Stage Best XI
* **Goalkeeper:** Mohamed El Shenawy
* **Defenders:** Edmond Tapsoba, Axel Tuanzebe, Noussair Mazraoui, Ali Abdi
* **Midfielders:** Carlos Baleba, Brahim Diaz, Ademola Lookman
* **Forwards:** Sadio Mane, Amad Diallo, Riyad Mahrez
