AFCON 2025: Lookman Shines, Osimhen Omitted as Chelle Named Group Stage Coach

Nigeria’s dominant group-stage showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has earned recognition from the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with Ademola Lookman named in the Group Stage Best XI and Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle crowned Group Stage Coach.

CAF unveiled the Best XI on social media, lining up standout performers in a 3-4-3 formation. Lookman’s inclusion followed his electric displays, scoring two goals and providing two assists in just two games. The Atalanta winger “dictated tempo, unsettled defenders” and finished with the highest average rating of the group stage.

However, Victor Osimhen’s absence sparked debate, with many surprised that the Galatasaray striker was left out despite his key role.

CAF’s XI also featured Mohamed El Shenawy, Edmond Tapsoba, Axel Tuanzebe, Noussair Mazraoui, Yassine Abdi, Carlos Baleba, Brahim Díaz, Sadio Mané, Amad Diallo, and Riyad Mahrez.