Nigerian international Ademola Lookman has been named among the standout performers of the group stage at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced its official best XI for the group phase on Friday, with Lookman the only Nigerian player to make the prestigious list.
The 28‑year‑old winger, who plays for Italian Serie A side Atalanta, was instrumental in Nigeria’s flawless Group C campaign.
He scored two goals and provided two assists as the Super Eagles collected maximum points from three matches to advance to the round of 16.
Lookman opened the scoring in Nigeria’s narrow 1‑0 victory over Tanzania before producing a stunning third goal in the emphatic win against Tunisia.
His creativity and finishing ability were central to Nigeria’s dominance in the group stage, earning him recognition as one of the tournament’s most influential players so far.
Recognition for Chelle
CAF also honoured Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle, who received the award for best manager during the group stage.
Chelle’s tactical discipline and ability to get the best out of his squad were credited with Nigeria’s perfect start, positioning the Super Eagles as one of the favourites heading into the knockout rounds.
Morocco contributed two players to the team of the group stage—Brahim Diaz and Noussair Mazraoui—while Côte d’Ivoire’s Amad Diallo leads the attack alongside Senegal’s Sadio Mane and Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez.
Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy was selected as goalkeeper, while the midfield and defense featured Cameroon’s Carlos Baleba, DR Congo’s Axel Tuanzebe, Tunisia’s Ali Abdi, and Burkina Faso’s Edmond Tapsoba.
The knockout stage of AFCON 2025 begins on December 3, with Nigeria set to face Mozambique on December 5.
With Lookman in scintillating form and Chelle earning plaudits for his leadership, expectations are high that the Super Eagles can extend their winning run and push deeper into the tournament.
For Nigerian fans, Lookman’s inclusion in CAF’s best XI is not only a personal triumph but also a sign of the team’s growing strength as they chase continental glory in Morocco.
