Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has been named in the official Best XI of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced on Friday.
The Atalanta forward was the lone Nigerian selected in the midfield lineup after an impressive start to the tournament.
Lookman, who finished the group stage with two goals and two assists in just two appearances, starred as Nigeria topped Group C with a perfect three wins from three matches.
CAF’s technical committee highlighted his pace, creativity, and positional versatility, describing him as a consistent attacking threat who excelled both centrally and out wide.
The Super Eagles’ strong performance also earned head coach Eric Chelle recognition as the group stage’s best coach, underscoring the tactical cohesion and balance Nigeria displayed under his guidance.
Eric Chelle, Super Eagles coach/©️BackpagePix
CAF’s Best XI features talent from across the continent, comprising a blend of experienced campaigners and rising stars.
Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy was chosen as the standout goalkeeper, while defenders like Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui and Burkina Faso’s Edmond Tapsoba anchored the backline.
In attack, former Premier League star Sadio Mané and Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez join Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo to complete the forward trio.
Nigeria now turns its focus to the Round of 16, where the Eagles will face Mozambique in Fès in a bid to continue their push for continental glory.
With Lookman and Chelle’s recent accolades boosting confidence, Nigeria will aim to maintain momentum as the knockout stages begin.
