WhoScored’s Dream XI for AFCON 2025/26: Salah, Mane, and Osimhen Lead a Star-Studded lineup
19 January 2026
WhoScored’s Ideal XI for AFCON 2025/26
WhoScored released its ideal XI for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025/26, chosen from digital performance scores and requiring players to have appeared at least five times during the tournament.
The lineup underscores the dominance of top continental stars, led by Mohamed Salah for Egypt, Sadio Mane for Senegal, and Victor Osimhen for Nigeria, whose standout form left a lasting impact on their teams’ journeys.
In goal, Edward Mendy of the title-winning Senegalese side earned a 6.91 rating, while the defense features Senegal’s Krépin Diatta, Egypt’s Yasser Ibrahim and Rami Rabia, and Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui.
Midfield is anchored by Ademola Lookman of Nigeria, who posted the tournament’s highest rating at 7.80, alongside Idrissa Gueye (Senegal) and Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast).
Up front, the attacking trio comprises Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane, supporting Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen at the spearhead position.
Senegal triumphed over Morocco 1-0 in the final, Nigeria finished third, and Egypt ended in fourth place. Interestingly, the XI omits top scorer Ibrahim Diaz and goalkeeper Bono, both Moroccan stars, according to the ranking.
Punchline 1: If football had a sniper, this XI would be aiming for the back of the net with more precision than my coffee’s shot of espresso. Punchline 2: This lineup reads like a masterclass in efficiency—backup plans? They come with a built-in smile after the final whistle.
