Nigeria Shines as Lookman, Chelle Earn AFCON 2025 Best XI Honours

Nigeria Shines as Lookman, Chelle Earn AFCON 2025 Best XI Honours

Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman and Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle have been named among the standout performers in the AFCON 2025 Group Stage Best XI, following an impressive opening round of the tournament in Morocco.

The group phase of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 produced several eye-catching displays across all departments, with players showing consistency, tactical intelligence and individual brilliance as attention now shifts to the knockout stages.

In goal, Egypt captain Mohamed El Shenawy was selected after a series of commanding performances, combining leadership with sharp reflexes to anchor his side defensively.

The defensive line features Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui and Yahia Attiat-Allah, whose balance and control stood out, alongside Axel Tuanzebe and Edmond Tapsoba, both praised for their strength, positioning and authority at the back.

READ ALSO:

• Kemi Adeosun: Why I Resigned From Buhari’s Cabinet Over NYSC Controversy
• Iran Warns US President Donald Trump Against Interference as Rial Protests Intensify
• Bodija Blast: Oyo Govt Explains Why N30bn FG Fund Was Not Announced

In midfield, Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman earned plaudits for his creativity and attacking intelligence, repeatedly unsettling opposition defences and driving the Super Eagles forward with purpose.

He is joined by Morocco’s Brahim Diaz, who impressed with his composure and vision, and Cameroon’s Carlos Baleba, whose energy and tactical awareness brought steel and dynamism to midfield battles.

The attacking trio comprises Algeria’s Riyad Mahrez, who dictated play with trademark elegance, Ivory Coast’s Amad Diallo, whose pace and flair ignited his team, and Senegal’s Sadio Mané, who combined leadership with decisive goals.

On the sidelines, Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle was also recognised for his tactical organisation, defensive discipline and smooth transitions, guiding Nigeria confidently through the group stage.

Overall, the AFCON 2025 Group Stage Best XI reflects the depth of talent on display at the tournament, with Lookman and Chelle underlining Nigeria’s growing influence as the competition heads into its decisive phase.

Nigeria Shines as Lookman, Chelle Earn AFCON 2025 Best XI Honours