By RismadarVoice Media
January 2, 2026
Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman has been named among the best players of the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
He is the only Nigerian player in the Best XI released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Friday.
Lookman, who has recorded two goals and two assists in two matches, was selected in a three-man midfield alongside Brahim Diaz of Morocco and Carlos Baleba of Cameroon, following an impressive run of performances that helped Nigeria secure maximum points in the group phase.
The Nigerian forward opened his AFCON 2025 account with the match-winning goal against Tanzania in Nigeria’s first group game, before delivering a goal and two assists in the Super Eagles’ 3–2 victory over Tunisia in their second outing.
CAF described Lookman as one of the tournament’s most dangerous players, noting his ability to combine attacking flair with midfield intelligence.
“The Nigerian forward turned midfielder, Lookman, was a constant threat with his direct running, creativity and eye for goal. His versatility allowed him to operate both as an attacking midfielder and winger, while his off-the-ball movement caused defenders constant problems,” CAF said.
Nigeria’s head coach, Eric Chelle, was also recognized as the Best Coach of the Group Stage after guiding the Super Eagles to three wins from three matches and top spot in their group.
CAF praised Chelle’s tactical organization, balanced team structure, ability to maximize the potential of his squad.
“Under Eric Chelle, Nigeria displayed tactical brilliance, solid defensive organization and quick transitions. His clear vision, consistent selections allowed the team to perform at their best, build a strong collective identity,” CAF stated.
Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy was named the Best Goalkeeper of the group stage.
The defensive line comprises Noussair Mazraoui and Yahia Attiat-Allah El Abdi 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 Sadio Mané of Senegal and Riyad Mahrez of Algeria. Diallo has scored two goals so far, Mané has one, while Mahrez tops the scoring chart with three goals in two matches.
The tournament continues on Saturday in Morocco with Round of 16 fixtures.
Defending champions, Ivory Coast will face Burkina Faso in Tangier, while Mali take on Tunisia in Casablanca.
Nigeria will return to action on Monday in Fes, where the Super Eagles will battle Mozambique for a place in the quarter-finals.
