Three standout players from Mamelodi Sundowns and Orlando Pirates were named in the CAF Men’s Champions League group stage Best XI, recognizing their exceptional performances in the competition’s first six match days.
CAF revealed the prestigious Best XI for the group stages of the CAF Men’s and Women’s Champions League on Wednesday evening, following the conclusion of the thrilling group stage action in January.
With the group stage now wrapped up, eight teams have secured their places in the quarterfinals, including Sundowns, who advanced as runners-up in their group behind Morocco’s AS FAR Rabat, and Orlando Pirates, who topped their group with an undefeated record.
Orlando Pirates made a massive impact in the group stages, finishing with a record-high 14 points, more than any other team in the competition during this campaign, and maintaining an unbeaten run.
This impressive feat earned two of their stars, Relebohile Mofokeng and Thabiso Sesane, spots in the Best XI. Mofokeng, in particular, was pivotal in Pirates’ success, scoring in three consecutive matches, helping the team to victories over Stade d’Abidjan, CR Belouizdad, and African giants Al Ahly, which contributed to their top finish in Group C.
From Mamelodi Sundowns, Teboho Mokoena also earned a place in the Best XI for his crucial role in helping his team reach the quarterfinals. While Mokoena didn’t find the back of the net during the group stages, he was a consistent and commanding presence for Sundowns throughout the six games, playing the full 90 minutes in each match. His contributions were key in ensuring Sundowns’ advancement to the knockout rounds.
Both Mofokeng and Sesane’s inclusion from Orlando Pirates, alongside Mokoena’s selection from Sundowns, highlights the growing dominance of South African clubs in African football.