Super Eagles Shine as Nigeria’s Star Winger and Head Coach Earn Top Honors.

Ademola Lookman

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled its official Best XI for the group stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman earning a well-deserved spot and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle crowned as the top manager.

Eric Chelle

Lookman, the Atalanta forward, has been one of the standout performers in the tournament so far. The 28-year-old registered two goals and two assists across Nigeria’s group matches, helping the Super Eagles secure a perfect record with three wins to top their group. He also picked up Man of the Match in the thrilling victory over Tunisia and was rested for the final group game.

CAF’s technical committee praised Lookman’s pace, creativity, versatility, and ability to influence games both centrally and from the wings. His inclusion in midfield highlights his growing reputation as one of Africa’s premier attackers.

AFCON 2025 Best XI

Meanwhile, Eric Chelle’s tactical acumen earned him the Best Coach award for the group stage. The former Mali boss, appointed by Nigeria in early 2025, guided the Super Eagles to maximum points with impressive displays of balance, quick transitions, and defensive solidity.

CAF Group Stage Best XI (3-4-3 Formation)

  • Goalkeeper: Mohamed El Shenawy (Egypt)
  • Defenders: Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco), Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo)
  • Midfielders: Yassine Abdi (Tunisia), Carlos Baleba (Cameroon), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), Brahim Díaz (Morocco)
  • Forwards: Sadio Mané (Senegal), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
  • Best Coach: Eric Chelle (Nigeria)

Nigeria now advances to the knockout stages with momentum, facing Mozambique in the Round of 16. These accolades underscore the Super Eagles’ strong start as they chase a fourth AFCON title.