Nigeria’s impressive group-stage campaign at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has earned recognition from the Confederation of African Football, with Ademola Lookman emerging as the only Nigerian named in CAF’s official Group Stage Best XI.
The Atalanta winger was rewarded for his outstanding performances, contributing two goals and two assists in just two appearances while operating from advanced midfield and wide attacking positions.
Lookman dictated play, consistently unsettled opposition defenders, and emerged as Nigeria’s most influential attacking player, recording the highest average player rating of the group stage.
CAF unveiled the Best XI in a 3-4-3 formation on its official social media platforms. The selection includes 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, Ademola Lookman of Nigeria, and Brahim Díaz of Morocco in midfield; with Sadio Mané of Senegal, Amad Diallo of Ivory Coast, and Riyad Mahrez of Algeria leading the attack.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle was also named CAF’s Group Stage Coach.
11 of the very best. 🌟
Your #TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 team of the group stage is here!#WePlayDifferent pic.twitter.com/NqGAkYXPvw
— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) January 2, 2026
However, the omission of Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen generated debate among fans and analysts. Osimhen started all three group matches and captained Nigeria during the 3–1 victory over Uganda but was left out of the Best XI selection.
Nigeria scored eight goals in three matches, finishing top of Group C with victories over Tanzania (2–1), Tunisia (3–2), and Uganda (3–1), averaging 2.7 goals per game, their most productive group-stage performance since 2008.
While Lookman’s decisive impact earned CAF recognition, Osimhen’s relative lack of goals during the group stage may have influenced his omission, despite his leadership and overall contribution.
The Super Eagles now shift focus to their Round of 16 encounter against Mozambique scheduled for January 5, 2026.
