# Who was the best player at the Asian Cup 2023?

> The expanded 2023 edition brought new contenders and continental stars onto the Asian stage, with individual performances that transcended club allegiances. Who topped them all?

*By YPB Team · Published May 24, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/who-was-the-best-player-at-the-asian-cup-2023*

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## Current results (no votes yet)

1. **Akram Afif**
   Qatar's winger who won the Golden Ball and top scorer award including a hat-trick of penalties in the final as Qatar retained the title.
2. **Almoez Ali**
   Qatar's striker who was again a key goal scorer in the holders' successful title defence.
3. **Mehdi Taremi**
   Iran's captain and prolific striker who was Iran's standout player throughout their campaign.
4. **Sardar Azmoun**
   Iran's forward who was a constant threat and one of the tournament's most technically gifted players.
5. **Lee Jae-sung**
   South Korea's creative midfielder who was influential in the centre of the park throughout the tournament.
6. **Ali Mabkhout**
   UAE's experienced striker who continued to perform at a high level and was among the leading scorers.
7. **Ritsu Doan**
   Japan's winger who was quick, direct and contributed goals and assists in Japan's run to the quarter-finals.
8. **Sadegh Moharrami**
   Iran's right-back who was one of the most adventurous and effective fullbacks in the tournament.

Tags: 2020s, asia, sports, football, players, national teams