Moroccan midfielder Ghizlane Chebbak has been named in the Best XI for the group stage of the 2025 Women's Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), as announced Wednesday by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). According to CAF's Technical Study Group, the Best XI from the group phase, played in Morocco through July 26, is «set up in a 4-3-3 formation, highlighting the standout performers of this first round, following a thrilling group phase that saw 45 goals scored across 18 matches», the organization stated on its website. The midfield trio includes Nigeria's Rasheedat Ajibade, Morocco's Ghizlane Chebbak, and South Africa's Refiloe Jane, described by CAF as embodying «pace, power, and precision». Chebbak, who was also voted Best Player of the group stage, «orchestrated play with vision, precise passing, and attacking flair», CAF added. Chebbak, 34, helped lead Morocco to the quarter-finals with an impressive four goals during the group stage. The Best XI's defense features a seasoned central pairing of Bambanani Mbane (South Africa) and Lushomo Mweemba (Zambia), flanked by Ashleigh Plumptre (Nigeria) and Fikile Magama (South Africa). Algerian goalkeeper Chloé N'Gazi was named Best Goalkeeper of the group stage, while South Africa's Desiree Ellis, reigning champion with Banyana Banyana, was awarded Best Coach. Morocco will face Mali in the quarter-finals this Friday at 8 p.m. at Rabat's Prince Moulay Abdellah Olympic Stadium.
