The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the shortlist for the prestigious Best African National Team of the Year award at the upcoming 2025 CAF Awards, featuring ten standout teams that have made significant strides in recent competitions.

Algeria, led by Bosnian coach Vladimir Petkovic, earned its nomination following a strong showing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

The Fennecs topped Group G with a dominant seven-point lead, also booking their spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Despite this success, Petkovic was not shortlisted for the African Coach of the Year, a decision that has sparked discussion.

Also on the shortlist is Cape Verde, a team that continues to impress with its disciplined performances and steady rise in African football rankings. Their resilience in recent qualifiers and tournament play has earned them recognition on the continental stage.

Côte d’Ivoire, the reigning AFCON champions, are a natural contender after their dramatic and well-deserved triumph on home soil earlier this year. Their comeback stories and thrilling victories captivated fans and reignited national pride.

Egypt, the record-holding AFCON champions, are back in the spotlight, riding on a wave of promising performances and a renewed push for continental dominance. Their balanced mix of experience and emerging talent has kept them among Africa's elite.

Ghana returns to contention with a younger generation of players showing great promise, aiming to restore the Black Stars’ status as a powerhouse in African football. Their consistent presence in key tournaments has not gone unnoticed.

Morocco continues to ride the momentum from their historic 2022 World Cup semifinal appearance. With both the senior team and the U20 team nominated, the North African nation demonstrates impressive depth and investment in youth development.

Senegal, the 2022 AFCON winners and a consistent force in African football, maintain their status among the continent’s best. With a well-organized squad and world-class talent, they remain strong contenders on every front.

South Africa, enjoying resurgence in form, have impressed with disciplined performances in recent tournaments and qualifiers. Their tactical evolution and player development are beginning to pay dividends on the pitch.

Finally, Tunisia, known for their consistency and technical play, also made the shortlist after solid showings in both World Cup qualifiers and AFCON competitions.

These ten teams represent the diversity, talent, and competitiveness of African football, each bringing a unique story and set of accomplishments to the 2025 CAF Awards.

The winner will be announced at the official awards ceremony, where the continent’s best national teams, clubs, and individual players will be celebrated.