CHAN 2024: Best XI of the Group Stages

The 2024 African Nations Championship group stage matches will get completed on Tuesday, having thoroughly entertained fans across the continent in the first two weeks.

As the tournament enters the quarterfinals, we look at the top performers so far, lined up in a 4-3-3 formation.

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Pulse Sports brings you the Best XI of the Group Stages.

The Malagasy shot-stopper has been a revelation between the posts, combining sharp reflexes with excellent command of his area.

The 39-year-old Elgeco Plus glovesman's heroics in tight matches ensured Madagascar conceded fewer than expected, even when under relentless pressure.

Ramandimbisoa’s leadership from the back has been equally important. He organizes his backline with authority, giving his defenders confidence to play out under pressure. This calmness has carried Madagascar into the knockout stages.

In one standout moment, he pulled off a double save in the dying minutes against Tanzania, which effectively sealed qualification. Those clutch interventions highlight why he is the best goalkeeper of the group stage.

Tanzania defender Mohamed Husseini has been one of the most adventurous full-backs of the tournament, constantly providing width and overlapping runs.

The Simba SC's man stamina down the flank has stretched opponents and created vital crossing opportunities.

Defensively, he has been equally dependable. Husseini rarely gets beaten one-on-one and has made several last-ditch tackles that saved his team from conceding.

Against Cameroon, he registered an assist with a whipped delivery that set up the winner, underlining his all-round contribution.

The Algerian defender has been rock solid at the heart of defense. Ghezala excels in aerial duels, often nullifying towering strikers with ease.

What sets him apart is his composure on the ball. He confidently steps out of defense to start attacks, providing an extra dimension to his team’s build-up play.

His commanding performance against Uganda, where he won nearly all defensive duels, has cemented his reputation as one of the standout defenders of CHAN 2024.

Kapombe has blended experience with energy, becoming a reliable outlet down the right-hand side. His overlapping play has often pinned back opposition wingers, allowing his side to dominate possession.

In defense, Kapombe has used his tactical awareness to shut down dangerous attackers, consistently winning challenges in high-pressure moments.

His ability to contribute both ways was evident in the 2–0 win over Burkina Faso, where he not only defended resolutely but also created multiple chances.

Okwaro has been the midfield engine, covering every blade of grass. His work rate and ball recovery make him the perfect shield in front of the back four.

Offensively, he is not just a destroyer but also a progressive passer. His forward balls have unlocked defenses, transitioning his side from defense to attack with speed.

He was crucial in the win over Morocco, where his pressing and tackling dismantled the opposition’s midfield structure.

Okello has lived up to his billing as one of Uganda’s brightest talents, as the playmaker has dazzled with his creativity, threading passes that split defenses with surgical precision.

His flair and vision keep defenders guessing, and he has been directly involved in key goals for the hosts. Beyond assists, he’s also shown courage to shoot from range.

Okello’s artistry was central in Uganda’s qualification, especially his decisive through ball that set up the opening goal against Bafana Bafana.

Odhiambo has been a revelation for Kenya, orchestrating attacks from the central areas as his ability to glide past opponents and link midfield to attack has been pivotal.

The Gor Mahia's man has shown maturity beyond his years, dictating the tempo and providing composure under pressure. His creativity complements Okello perfectly, making them one of the most effective midfield duos.

A standout performance came against DR Congo, where his intelligent runs and passing carved open one of the toughest defenses.

Meziane has proven himself a complete forward, equally adept at holding up play and finishing clinically. His sharp movement has consistently pulled defenders out of position.

He has scored vital goals, including a late equalizer that kept Algeria’s hopes alive in a must-win match. His ice-cool finishing stands out in pressure situations.

Beyond goals, Meziane’s link-up play has created openings for his strike partners, making him invaluable.

Lamlioui has lit up the tournament with his goal-scoring exploits. Leading the charts, he has been ruthless in front of goal, punishing every defensive lapse.

The Moroccan instincts inside the box are unmatched as he thrives on half-chances, turning them into decisive moments that swing games.

One memorable moment came when he scored a brace in just 10 minutes against DR Congo, demonstrating his ability to singlehandedly change the game’s outcome.

Mzize has been a surprise package, rising to the occasion with crucial goals. His movement off the ball has unsettled defenses, and his finishing has been clinical.

He combines agility with sharp decision-making, often outsmarting more experienced defenders. His hunger to prove himself has been evident in every match.

Mzize’s goal against Madagascar, scored with composure under immense pressure, was one of the highlights of the group stages.

Kaporal adds flair and unpredictability to the attack as his dribbling ability and willingness to take on defenders make him a constant menace.

The Angolan international is not just a scorer but also a creator, often drifting wide to deliver crosses or cutbacks for teammates. This versatility gives his side multiple attacking dimensions.

His solo effort against Zambia, where he danced past two defenders before slotting home, showcased his raw talent and confidence.