Summoned back inbetween the posts by new coach Nabil Maaloul. He was rarely tested but he did well whenever he was called upon.

John Boye

With Boye at the heart of Ghanaian backline the Black Stars become a tough proposition. His goal set Ghana on their way to a comfortable victory over Ethiopia and there was a clean sheet to boot.

Rami Bensebaini

Algeria have been crying out for a good centre back for god knows how long. Bensebaini received praise from Emmanuel Adebayor for the way he went about his business.

Ali Maaloul

The threat of Mohamed Salah down his flank didn’t deter the set piece specialist from venturing forward. As ever, he was a constant outlet down the left.

Idrissa Gueye

One of the first names on the sheet for Aliou Cisse, but could he do it on a hot night in Dakar without Cheikhou Kouyate next to him? He scored his first international goal to cap off a typically tireless performance.

Dean Furman

It’s hard to find a South African player who didn’t have a good game in their historic win over Nigeria in Uyo. Furman eclipsed them all. He was superb, especially with his recovering of the ball.

Mohamed Amine Ben Amor

Just like at AFCON 2017, Ben Amor and Ferjani Sassi dominated the midfield battle. The latter’s elegance alone wouldn’t be enough; Ben Amor adds the tenacity that makes them fearsome proposition.

Naby Keita

Oozed confidence after a superb season in the Bundesliga. He ran the game with his ability to find space leaving the Ivorian defence chasing shadows.

Youssef Msakni

One of Africa’s most watchable players and he proved it against one of the continent’s most disciplined back lines. Whenever he was on the ball the Rades crowd expected something out of nothing.

Maxwel Cornet

On the losing side but Cornet’s endeavour and directness can’t be questioned. He has quickly taken to international football; he always looked like forcing something in the final third.

Knowledge Musona

A hat-trick for ‘General’ Knowledge Musona. Zimbabwe are one of the most entertaining teams to watch on the continent and Musona’s dynamism is a key component of that.