Nigeria winger Ademola Lookman has been named the only Nigerian in the official Group Stage Best XI of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Lookman earned the recognition following an impressive group-stage showing, recording two goals and two assists in two appearances for the Super Eagles. The Atalanta forward featured across advanced midfield and wide attacking roles, playing a key part in Nigeria’s attacking play.
CAF said Lookman stood out for his influence, creativity and consistency, finishing the group stage with the highest average player rating among Nigerian players.
The Best XI, unveiled by CAF on social media in a 3-4-3 formation, features Mohamed El Shenawy of Egypt in goal; Edmond Tapsoba of Burkina Faso, Axel Tuanzebe of DR Congo and Noussair Mazraoui of Morocco in defence; Yassine Abdi of Tunisia, Carlos Baleba of Cameroon, Lookman of Nigeria and Brahim Díaz of Morocco in midfield; and Sadio Mané of Senegal, Amad Diallo of Ivory Coast and Riyad Mahrez of Algeria in attack.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle was also named CAF’s Group Stage Coach.
However, the exclusion of striker Victor Osimhen generated debate among fans. Osimhen started all three of Nigeria’s group matches and captained the team in the 3–1 victory over Uganda but was not included in the selection.
Nigeria topped Group C after recording wins over Tanzania (2–1), Tunisia (3–2) and Uganda (3–1), scoring eight goals and averaging 2.7 goals per match — their most productive group-stage performance since 2008.
While Lookman’s direct contributions earned CAF recognition, Osimhen’s limited goal return during the group stage may have influenced his omission.
The Super Eagles will face Mozambique in the Round of 16 on January 5, 2026.
