Who is the best African defender of all time?

African defenders have been among the most tenacious and skilled in world football. From Nayim to John Obi Mikel — who is the greatest African defender of all time?

1

Kalidou Koulibaly

Senegal's towering center back who was one of Serie A's finest defenders at Napoli for nearly a decade.

2

Rigobert Song

Cameroon's iconic captain and long-time record-holder for African World Cup appearances, a commanding center back.

3

Taribo West

Nigeria's flamboyant center back with trademark braids who starred at Ajax, Auxerre and Inter Milan.

4

Cheikhou Kouyaté

Senegal's commanding and versatile defender who is a consistent presence in the Lions of Teranga's backline.

5

Nayef Aguerd

Morocco's technically assured center back who impressed at the 2022 World Cup as Morocco reached the semifinals.

6

Serge Aurier

Ivory Coast's energetic right back who was one of the best attacking full backs in the Premier League during his time.

7

Achraf Hakimi

Morocco's electrifying right back who starred at Real Madrid, Inter Milan and PSG, reaching the 2022 World Cup semifinal.

8

Emmanuel Eboué

Ivory Coast's energetic right back who was a key figure in Arsenal's squad and played at two Africa Cup of Nations.

9

Cédric Bakambu

DR Congo's prolific and versatile forward-turned-winger with speed and directness to trouble any defense.

10

Pierre Womé

Ivory Coast's reliable left back who famously missed the decisive penalty at the 2006 World Cup qualification playoff.