Generation after generation, football continues to see improvement on all fronts. As roles in the sport continue to evolve, one that has garnered less attention is that of the dexterity of African goalkeepers.
From the usual traditional goalkeepers of the old, the order of the day has now necessitated a compulsory redefinition of the role.
Goalies are now required to be very versed with their feet in possession, come sweep yards away from their goal line and in some quarters, play as an extra centerback as dictated by tactical instructions.
As the world of football continues to see many fine professionals in this regard, here are some of the best goalkeepers in modern African football.
Andre Onana
Andre Onana made a dream move to English heavyweights Manchester United last summer. This move has come with ups and downs for the former AFC Ajax shot-stopper.
Getting his career back on track after a supposed doping charge, he joined Inter Milan in Italy. Helping the club to triumphs in the Italian cup and Super cup. His 2022/2023 campaign had him fighting for the starter spot with Samir Handanovic.
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The Cameroonian goalkeeper cemented that spot in the UEFA champions league where he led the club to the final against Manchester City amassing the most saves and clean sheets across the campaign.
Nominated on the shortlist for the 2023 Africa goalkeeper of the year, he came out of retirement to join the Indomitable Lions at the Africa Cup of Nations. Andre Onana remains one of the very high revered sweeper goalkeepers in the world of football.
Edouard Osoque Mendy
The Senegalese shot-stopper joined Chelsea in similar fashion to club legend Petr Cech. Mendy came in over a summer that saw many changes within the club ranks to provide competition for Kepa Arrizabalaga.
He cemented the number one spot and helped the Blues go all the way to the champions league triumph in 2021, coming clutch with important saves against Manchester City in the final.
Building on that laurel on the international scene, he was a big part of Senegal’s Africa cup of Nations winning squad in 2022. Mendy currently plies his trade in the Saudi Pro League since his departure from Chelsea.
Yassine Bounou
Bounou joined the Saudi heavyweights Al Hilal in the summer of 2023. Making both shortlists for the Lev Yashin award and African player of the year.
While still on the books of Sevilla FC, he had a tournament to remember at the 2022 FIFA world cup. When Atlas Lions of Morocco went all the way to the semi-final – the first ever on record for an African side.
Bounou’s remarkable achievements did not go unnoticed, earning him nominations for the 2023 Ballon d’Or and The 2023 Best FIFA Football Awards.
Finishing 13th place in the Ballon d’Or rankings and an impressive 3rd place in the Lev Yashin award rankings.
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