African Team Of The Week: Faouzi Chaouchi Shines On Big Day For Algeria

Faouzi Chaouchi (Goalkeeper - Algeria)

The suspension of first-choice goalkeeper Lounes Gaouaoui for the World Cup play-off in Sudan between regional rivals Egypt and Algeria meant that coach Rabah Saadane was forced to give Faouzi Chaouchi only his third start in a national team jersey. In what was surely the most important match of his life to date, the 24-year-old Chaouchi responded by producing a string of stunning and decisive saves that allowed his side to hold onto a precious 1-0 victory to qualify for next summer's World Cup at the expense of the Pharaohs.

Anthar Yahia (Defender - Algeria)

With half-time approaching and Algeria having missed a few chances to take a one goal advantage into the break in the deciding game of World Cup qualifying against Egypt, a lofted ball from Karim Ziani made its way into the penalty box. Anthar Yahia allowed it to bounce once before unleashing an unstoppable right-footed shot that flew past an onrushing defender, onto the crossbar, and into Essam El-Hadary's net. The moment of brilliance will be forever remembered by the millions of Algerians praying for their first World Cup qualification in 24 years and also ensured that the Germany-based player will likely never have to pay for a meal in his home country ever again.

Rooi Mahamutsa (Defender - Orlando Pirates - South Africa)

The stalwart defender was influential in his side's 3-0 win over Ajax Cape Town, helping the Buccaneers to keep a clean sheet while pushing forward and keeping the Western Cape side under pressure. The cherry on top for Mahamutsa was his goal in the match, which put the contest beyond the Urban Warriors as he dispatched a spot kick into the top corner, making it 3-0 and wrapping up the points for the Buccaneers.

Nadir Belhadj (Defender - Algeria)

The Portsmouth defender's no-nonsense style played a big role as Algeria picked themselves up after the drama in Cairo to avenge their elimination from the 1990 World Cup by Egypt.
 
Ahmed Musa (Midfielder - Kano Pillars - Nigeria)

The enterprising midfielder is making the most of his transfer from lower league club JUTH of Jos with some great displays and goals for his new club in the Nigerian top flight. He was again on target as Pillars new coach, Salisu Yusuf, won his first match since he took over from the Slovenian, Ivo Sajh.

Daniel Waweru (Midfielder - Red Berets - Kenya)
 
Midfielder Daniel Waweru scored the second goal as his team Red Berets beat Nairobi City Stars 2-1. The three points secured Berets a stay in the Kenya Premier League next season after hovering in the relegation zone for the last three months. Berets finished in 15th place out of 17 teams as the league came to an end on Sunday. Agrochemicals and Bandari got relegated to the nationwide league next season

Bello Kofarmata (Winger - Kano Pillars - Nigeria)

The highly-rated player appears to have regained the form that made him such a great hit in the Nigerian league two years ago. Besides his blistering pace, he knows his way to the goal and showed that against newly-promoted Ranch Bees at the weekend.

Anthony Laffor (Striker - SuperSport United - South Africa)
 
Maritzburg United lost 3-2 to SuperSport United at Loftus on Saturday and most of the praise should go to the Liberian Anthony Laffor, who was influential in the victory. The striker was the star performer on a wet and heavy pitch, scoring two goals to guide his team to a victory that maintained their two-point lead at the head of the table. The player also set up a number of good chances for Daine Klate and others, proving that he plays for the whole team.

Tanko Mohammed (Striker - Kpando Hearts of Lions - Ghana)

His 11th minute goal broke the hearts of sensational league first runner-up Kumasi Asante Kotoko over the weekend. Mohammed’s goal compounded the woes of the Porcupine Warriors, who slipped down the league table. His header ensured that the home side roared loudest in the biggest fixture of the weekend as Lions moved into the fourth position and Kotoko left with a defeat and a man down.

Akeem Adebisi (Striker - Shooting Stars - Nigeria)

The young striker struck twice in a 3-1 home win over Kaduna United in mid-week which halted his newly-promoted club's losing streak in the league. It was his third goal this term.

James Chamanga (Striker - Zambia)

The China-based marksman netted a hat-trick in an ill-time friendly against visiting North Korea in Lusaka. The Copper Bullets beat World Cup-bound North Korea 4-1.

Samm Audu, Goal.com