As the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations concludes today after 31 days of thrilling action, Soccernet.ng reports a total of 116 goals scored in 51 matches, making it the highest-scoring AFCON in history. With top talents like Victor Osimhen, Sadio Mane, Mo Salah, and Sebastien Haller present, the tournament showcased outstanding goalkeeping performances that prevented even more goals from being netted.

Among the standout goalkeepers at the tournament, Equatorial Guinea’s Jesus Owono, Mauritania’s Babacar Niasse, and Tanzania’s Aishi Manula earned praise for their commendable performances. However, some expected more from the likes of Senegal’s Édouard Mendy, Zambia’s Lawrence Mulenga, and Ghana’s Richard Ofori.

Yet, three goalkeepers exceeded all expectations, with one likely to be recognized as the best goalkeeper of this historic AFCON.

Ronwen Williams – South Africa At 32, Williams, one of the oldest goalkeepers at AFCON, took on the added responsibility of captaining a Bafana Bafana side that had underachieved in recent years. Despite conceding twice in the opening match against Mali, Williams and Bafana Bafana turned things around, securing four consecutive clean sheets and reaching the AFCON semifinals for the first time in 24 years. Williams played a pivotal role in South Africa’s quarterfinal clash against Cape Verde, saving four of the five penalties he faced in the shootout. Despite conceding in the semifinal against Nigeria, Williams delivered another fine display, helping South Africa secure the bronze medal.

Stanley Nwabali – Nigeria Making his Super Eagles debut in 2021, Nwabali faced challenges initially, conceding four goals in an international friendly against Mexico. However, he emerged as Nigeria’s first choice in the AFCON, keeping a clean sheet in victories over Cote d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Cameroon, and Angola. Although Teboho Mokoena scored a penalty against him in the semifinal against South Africa, Nwabali saved two penalties in the shootout, earning him the Man of the Match award. With four clean sheets and only two goals conceded, Nwabali is in contention for the Best Goalkeeper award, especially if he can shut out Cote d’Ivoire in the final.

Vózinha – Cape Verde Josimar ‘Vózinha’ Dias, the experienced AS Trenčín goalkeeper, showcased his skills at the 2023 AFCON. With previous appearances in the 2013, 2015, and 2021 editions, Vózinha arrived in Cote d’Ivoire with substantial experience. Despite Cape Verde’s quarterfinal exit against South Africa, Vózinha played a crucial role, keeping three clean sheets and making stunning saves that featured in highlight reels.