Flying Eagles captain, Daniel Bameyi has been named in the 2025 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations Team of the Tournament following an impressive campaign in Egypt.
Bameyi was a rock at the heart of Nigeria’s defence, playing every minute of the team’s six matches.
His leadership and consistency were pivotal as the Flying Eagles kept three clean sheets and conceded just three goals, one of the best defensive records at the tournament.
The 19-year-old centre-back, who plays for Bayelsa United, also scored once during the competition and was named Man of the Match in Nigeria’s group-stage victory over Tunisia.
His standout performance earned him a spot in the Team of the Group Stage, and now he finishes the tournament with a place in the overall Best XI, a testament to his consistency and maturity.
Bameyi’s selection is seen as a fitting recognition of his contribution and growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s brightest young talents.
Calm under pressure, strong in the tackle, and vocal in marshalling the backline, he led by example throughout the tournament.
Champions South Africa and semi-finalists
Morocco dominated the Best XI with four players each. Sierra Leone’s Momoh Kamara, the tournament’s top scorer with four goals and Egypt’s Mohamed Goweily were also named in the prestigious selection.
South Africa’s Raymond Mdaka was named Coach of the Tournament after guiding his side to the title, while midfielder Tylon Smith of South Africa was named Player of the Tournament.
Team of the Tournament (4-2-3-1 formation):
Fletcher Lowe (South Africa) – Goalkeeper
Neo Rapoo (South Africa)
Mohamed Goweily (Egypt)
Othmane Maamma (Morocco)
Daniel Bameyi (Nigeria)
Lazola Maku (South Africa)
Hossam Essadak (Morocco)
Faycal Zahouani (Morocco)
Hamza Koutoune (Morocco)
Momoh Kamara (Sierra Leone)
Tylon Smith (South Africa)
Awards:
Best Player: Tylon Smith (South Africa)
Top Scorer: Momoh Kamara (Sierra Leone) – 4 goals
Best Goalkeeper: Fletcher Lowe (South Africa)
Best Coach: Raymond Mdaka (South Africa)
Fair Play Award: Morocco
