Super Falcons’ Ajibade, Plumptre named in Group Stage Best XI

The CAF Technical Study Group (TSG) has unveiled the Best XI from the group stage of the ongoing Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 in Morocco; a team brimming with quality, grit, and tactical intelligence.

Lined up in a classic 4-3-3 formation, the selection reflects the standout individual displays from a thrilling group stage that delivered 45 goals in 18 matches, alongside countless moments of technical excellence and team brilliance.

Ruthless and relentless: The forward line

Up front, the chosen attacking trio epitomises the pace, power, and precision that defined the opening phase of this year’s tournament. Zambia’s Barbra Banda leads the line, a relentless force inside the box whose three goals were a product of sharp movement and clinical finishing.

Operating from the flanks are two of the most dangerous forwards of the tournament so far. Racheal Kundananji, Banda’s compatriot, lit up the left wing with her blistering pace and intent, netting three times.

On the right, Senegal’s Nguenar Ndiaye was the tournament’s joint-top scorer after the group stage with four goals, combining craft with cutting edge. Together, the trio have tormented defences and raised the bar for attacking football in Africa.

Midfield craft and control

The midfield three offers a superb balance of flair, power and intelligence. Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, voted Best Player of the Group Stage, was the conductor-in-chief. Her vision, passing range and ability to find space in tight areas made her a constant threat.

Joining her is Super Falcons of Nigeria Rasheedat Ajibade, whose versatility and technical quality allowed her to drive from deep and connect midfield to attack.

On the right of the trio, South Africa’s Refiloe Jane anchored play with calm control and intelligent ball use, providing tactical assurance and composure in possession.

Defenders who do it all

The backline is both battle-hardened and technically sound. In the heart of defence, South Africa’s Bambanani Mbane and Zambia’s Lushomo Mweemba brought leadership, aerial strength, and clean distribution, vital traits in modern defending.

On the flanks, Nigeria’s Ashleigh Plumptre offered composure and tactical discipline on the left, while South Africa’s Fikile Magama impressed with her energy, overlapping runs, and defensive awareness on the right.

It’s a back four that didn’t just defend well, but also contributed to transitional play and attacking build-up.

Between the sticks: Algeria’s guardian angel

Algeria’s Chloé N’Gazi takes her place in goal after a standout group stage that saw her keep three clean sheets.

Her crucial saves and calming presence between the posts were instrumental in Algeria’s historic qualification for the quarterfinals; their first ever at the WAFCON.

CAF Women’s AFCON 2024 Group Stage Best XI (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Chloé N’Gazi (Algeria)
Defenders: Ashleigh Plumptre (Nigeria), Bambanani Mbane (South Africa), Lushomo Mweemba (Zambia), Fikile Magama (South Africa)
Midfielders: Rasheedat Ajibade (Nigeria), Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco), Refiloe Jane (South Africa)
Forwards: Racheal Kundananji (Zambia), Barbra Banda (Zambia), Nguenar Ndiaye (Senegal)

Desiree Ellis named best Coach of the Group stage

South Africa’s head coach, Dr. Desiree Ellis, has been named Best Coach of the Group Stage, narrowly edging Super Falcons gaffer, Justine Madugu.

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The reigning champion tactician once again demonstrated her top-tier credentials, leading Banyana Banyana to an unbeaten campaign and top spot in their group, with seven goals scored and just one conceded.

The Technical Study Group praised Ellis for instilling tactical discipline, squad cohesion and a well-balanced system that transitions smoothly between defence and attack.

Her leadership continues to be a defining element in South Africa’s pursuit of back-to-back continental glory.