The dust has barely settled on the electrifying TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations, Cote d'Ivoire 2023, but the football fervour continues unabated as the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League resumes action this weekend.
With the continent still buzzing from the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON spectacle in Cote d'Ivoire, fans eagerly anticipate seeing their favourite stars transition from international glory to club success.
Among the plethora of talent showcased at TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023, several players plying their trade on the continent stood out with their exceptional performances - despite the tournament being dominated by Europe-based players - leaving an indelible mark on the tournament.
As the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League recommences, attention turns to these standout performers, poised to carry their momentum into club competition.
Here are the top five players from the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023 set to light up the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League:
1. Ronwen Williams (GK) - Mamelodi Sundowns & South Africa
The hero of South Africa's bronze medal triumph, Ronwen Williams, proved his mettle between the sticks with breathtaking saves throughout AFCON 2023. As captain of both Mamelodi Sundowns and the South Africa national team, Williams' commanding presence and shot-stopping prowess earned him the title of the tournament's best goalkeeper. His heroics, notably in the quarter-final penalty shootout against Cape Verde, cemented his status as one of Africa's premier goalkeepers.
2. Teboho Mokoena (MF) - Mamelodi Sundowns & South Africa
Teboho Mokoena's midfield mastery was instrumental in South Africa's AFCON journey, earning him a coveted spot in the tournament's Best XI. The Mamelodi Sundowns midfielder showcased his versatility, contributing both defensively and offensively with flair and finesse. His highlight moment, a sublime free-kick in South Africa's stunning victory over Morocco, underscored his importance to both club and country.
3. Henock Inonga (DF) - Simba SC & DR Congo
Forming a formidable defensive partnership for DR Congo, Henock Inonga's commanding presence at the back was instrumental in the Leopards' fourth-place finish at the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023. Representing Simba SC at the club level, Inonga's solid performances showcased his ability to thwart opposition attacks and marshal his defensive line with authority. His leadership and defensive nous will be crucial assets as Simba SC resumes their African Champions League campaign.
4. Gilberto Deivi Miguel (FW) - Petro Atletico & Angola
Gilberto Deivi Miguel's attacking flair shone bright for Angola at the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023, despite their quarter-final exit. The Petro Atletico forward showcased his predatory instincts and offensive prowess, providing a constant threat to opposition defenses. At just 22 years old, Miguel's potential is limitless, and his performances at both club and international level mark him as one to watch in the African Champions League.
5. Djigui Diarra (GK) - Young Africans & Mali
As the custodian of Mali's goal, Djigui Diarra's shot-stopping heroics were pivotal in guiding the Malian Eagles to the quarter-finals of AFCON 2023. Representing Young Africans at the club level, Diarra's agility and reflexes were on full display throughout the tournament, earning him plaudits for his commanding presence between the posts. His performances for both club and country make him a key figure to watch as the TotalEnergies CAF Champions League action resumes.
With these standout performers ready to grace the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023 stage, fans can expect an exhilarating blend of skill, passion, and drama as the quest for continental glory resumes.
As the TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2023 legacy lives on, the stage is set for these top talents to shine on club football's grandest stage.
TotalEnergies CAF Champions League Match Day 5 Fixtures:
Friday, 23 February
16h00 GMT | Al-Hilal – Petro de Luanda
16h00 GMT | Medeama – Al Ahly SC
19h00 GMT | Asec Mimosas – Simba SC
Saturday, 24 February
13h00 GMT | Jwaneng Galaxy – Wydad AC
13h00 GMT | TP Mazembe - Pyramids FC
16h00 GMT | Nouadhibou – Mamelodi Sundowns FC
16h00 GMT | Young Africans – CR Belouizdad
19h00 GMT | ES Sahel – ES Tunis