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By Seyi Babalola
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has been named among the best players in the group stage of the 2025 AFCON.
Lookman made it to the list as the only Nigerian player in the team, while Eric Chelle was picked as the best coach, after three rounds of matches.
The group stage XI was released by the Confederation of African Football on Friday.
Lookman, who has two goals and two assists in two games at the tournament, was picked to a three-man midfield with Morocco’s Brahim Diaz and Cameroon’s Carlos Baleba.
He scored his first goal of the tournament against Tanzania in the opening game, and he also had two assists and a goal in the second game, a 3-2 victory over Tunisia.
According to CAF, the forward has functioned with the instinct of a midfielder at the tournament, making him one of the most dangerous players so far.
“The Nigerian forward turned midfielder, Lookman, was a constant threat with his direct running, creativity, and eye for goal. His versatility allowed him to play both as an attacking midfielder and a winger, and his movement off the ball was a nightmare for defenders.
“Lookman’s intelligence in finding pockets of space and his ability to produce key passes in critical moments made him one of the group stage’s most dangerous players,” CAF wrote.
Nigeria’s coach, Chelle, who guided the team to the top of their group table with three wins, was also named the best coach of the group stage.
Under the guidance of Eric Chelle, the Nigerian national team displayed tactical brilliance and a cohesive team structure. Chelle’s approach was marked by a solid defensive setup, quick transitions, and giving attacking players the freedom to express themselves.
“His clear vision and consistent choices allowed Nigeria to perform at their best during the group stage, showcasing a balanced style of play. Chelle’s ability to maximise the potential of his squad and build a collective identity was one of the highlights of the group stage,” CAF also wrote about the coach’s inclusion.
