Super Eagles star Ademola Lookman has been named in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group Stage Best XI, emerging as the only Nigerian player to make the prestigious list released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
The recognition follows Lookman’s outstanding performances in Nigeria’s opening two matches of the tournament, where he recorded two goals and two assists, playing a pivotal role in the team’s perfect group-stage run.
CAF selected the Atalanta forward in a three-man midfield alongside Brahim Diaz of Morocco and Carlos Baleba of Cameroon, highlighting Lookman’s tactical intelligence and versatility.
Lookman opened his AFCON account with a decisive match-winning goal against Tanzania, before delivering another commanding display against Tunisia, where he scored once and provided two assists in Nigeria’s thrilling 3–2 victory.
CAF praised his all-round contribution, describing him as a forward who has effectively operated with a midfielder’s instincts.
“The Nigerian forward turned midfielder was a constant threat with his direct running, creativity and eye for goal. His ability to drift into dangerous spaces and deliver key passes at crucial moments made him one of the standout players of the group stage,” CAF stated.
Beyond individual brilliance, Nigeria’s success also earned recognition for head coach Eric Chelle, who was named Best Coach of the Group Stage after guiding the Super Eagles to three wins from three matches.
CAF credited Chelle for instilling tactical discipline, defensive solidity and fluid attacking transitions, while allowing creative players the freedom to express themselves on the pitch.
“His clear vision and consistent team selection helped Nigeria perform at their best, building a strong collective identity and a balanced style of play,” CAF noted.
Elsewhere in the Best XI, Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy was named Best Goalkeeper, while the defensive line features Noussair Mazraoui and Yahia Attiat-Allah of Morocco, Axel Tuanzebe of DR Congo, and Edmond Tapsoba of Burkina Faso.
The attack is led by Amad Diallo of Ivory Coast, flanked by Senegal’s Sadio Mané and Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez, who currently tops the scoring chart with three goals.
With the group stage concluded, attention now shifts to the Round of 16, which begins on Saturday in Morocco. Nigeria will face Mozambique on Monday in Fes, as the Super Eagles continue their quest for continental glory.
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