2012 Africa Cup of Nations Team of the Group Stages

Javier Balboa shot co-hosts Equatorial Guinea to victory in their first match of the 2012 Afcon against Libya, allowing them to claim victory when they were expected to be the punching bag of Group A. His experience and attacking ability has been an important part of the Nzalang Nacional's success. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored in Gabon’s opening Group C match against Niger in the Afcon, helping his side to a 2-0 win. The 22-year-old was also the man of the match in their encounter against Morocco, scoring a goal and creating another in a 3-2 victory. He was on hand once again to score the winner in a 1-0 victory over Tunisia in the final group match.

Andre Ayew is already a well known player in footballing circles, but once again he is doing a fantastic job of improving his reputation as a leader in the making and a talented youngster who is capable of winning matches and playing an important part for the Black Stars. His stunning goal against Mali was inspirational, and he has been one of Ghana's best so far. Youssef Msakni has been in stunning form for the Carthage Eagles, showing sublime skill as he waltzed past both Moroccan and Nigerien defences before finishing to put Tunisia in commanding positions that allowed them to win their first two group matches. His dribbling has been a pleasure to watch, and he will be important for the north Africans going forward in this competition.