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CAF
20-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
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.
CAF
06-04-2025
- Sport
- CAF
TotalEnergies CAF U-17 AFCON: Alynho Haïdara, the art of the Number nine
At just 16 years old, Alynho Haïdara made a resounding statement at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations. While several strikers wrapped up the tournament with four goals to their name, the young Ivorian hit that mark in his very first match — a sensational four-goal haul that showcased not just raw talent, but a rare maturity for his age. In Côte d'Ivoire's emphatic 6–1 win over the Central African Republic, Haïdara proved he's far more than a promising youngster. He emerged as a genuine asset for the Elephanteaux, leading the line with authority and purpose. It wasn't just his goals that turned heads — it was his presence, poise, and leadership in attack. A Classic No. 9 Quiet off the pitch, Haïdara lets his football do the talking. With refined technique and a football IQ well beyond his years, he plays with the maturity of a seasoned pro. His coach, Bassiriki Diabaté, had high praise for the teenager: "He's a real old-school number nine. His influence goes beyond scoring goals. He's our anchor up front, the key to our attacking play. With a mobile but sometimes lightweight midfield, his ability to pin back defenders is crucial. He creates space, draws markers, and keeps our attacking rhythm flowing." Haïdara's selflessness also stands out. He's the kind of forward who puts the team first — a modern centre-forward with a classic mentality, essential to the balance and structure of the squad. Following in Osimhen's Footsteps Ask Haïdara who inspires him most, and he doesn't hesitate: "My favourite player, the one I try to emulate, is Victor Osimhen'. The Ivorian looks up to the Nigerian striker — now a star at Galatasaray and runner-up at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations — who burst onto the scene during the 2015 U-17 AFCON, claiming the Golden Boot and a World Cup title in the same year. "I want to follow his path. His journey motivates me to aim higher," Haïdara says. Osimhen, who was named African Player of the Year in 2023, has become a daily source of inspiration for the rising Ivorian star. Eyes on the Record With four goals already under his belt, Haïdara is now targeting a piece of history. The all-time top scorer record at a single U-17 AFCON currently stands at six goals, held jointly by Djibril Touré and Isaac Success. "It's an ambitious goal, but I'm determined to get there. My dream is to break that record and become the top scorer in U-17 AFCON history', he says with steely determination. But even with personal glory in sight, Haïdara remains grounded. For him, success is rooted in the collective. "My performances come from the team around me. We grow together, and that's how we win."
