Three Nigerian Stars Named in CAF Team of the Tournament After AFCON 2025

 Three Nigerian Stars Named in CAF Team of the Tournament After AFCON 2025

By Aisha Aminu Maigida

Maaun/22/MCO/0046

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released the official Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), recognizing the top performers from across the continent after the competition concluded with Senegal crowned champions following a 1–0 win over Morocco.

Nigeria featured prominently in the selection, with three Super Eagles players named among the continent’s best after impressive individual campaigns at the biennial tournament.

Forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman earned places in the Best XI thanks to their attacking contributions that helped Nigeria finish in third place. Osimhen scored four goals and recorded two assists, while Lookman contributed three goals and four assists throughout the competition.

Completing Nigeria’s representation in the team was defender Bruno Onyemaechi, who was recognized for his consistency at left-back during the tournament.

CAF’s Best XI is selected by a Technical Study Group, which evaluates players based on tactical discipline, impact in matches, and overall performance across the tournament. The announcement offers recognition for individual excellence even when a team does not win the title.

Football analysts have described the inclusion of three Nigerians as a sign of the country’s continued relevance in African football, especially given the strength of competition from other leading teams such as hosts Morocco and champions Senegal.

“For Nigeria to have multiple players in the CAF Team of the Tournament shows that our players are among Africa’s elite, even in a highly competitive AFCON environment,” said a Lagos-based sports commentator.

Reaction from Nigerian fans on social media was overwhelmingly positive, with many praising the individual achievements despite Nigeria not lifting the trophy. Supporters also expressed hope that strong performances by Osimhen, Lookman, and Onyemaechi will translate into confidence for future international fixtures.

For more details on CAF competitions and full team selections, visit the official CAF website at https://www.cafonline.com.

Caption: Nigerian players celebrating during a match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The announcement has been welcomed as a moment of pride for Nigerian football, reaffirming the Super Eagles’ status as one of Africa’s most competitive sides on the continental stage.