AFCON 2025: Osimhen missing as Lookman makes CAF group stage Best XI

Nigeria’s impressive group-stage performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been recognised by the Confederation of African Football (CAF), with Ademola Lookman earning a place in the official Group Stage Best XI.

However, the absence of Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen has ignited widespread debate.

CAF unveiled the Best XI on social media, selecting standout performers from the opening phase of the tournament in a 3-4-3 formation.

While Lookman was rewarded for his decisive influence, Osimhen’s omission came as a surprise given his stature and ever-present role in Nigeria’s attack.

The Atalanta winger has been one of the tournament’s most electric performers, delivering two goals and two assists in just two appearances.

Operating from advanced midfield and wide areas, Lookman dictated tempo, unsettled defenders, and emerged as Nigeria’s most consistent attacking star.

His performances earned him the highest average player rating of the group stage.

CAF’s Best XI featured Egypt’s Mohamed El Shenawy in goal; defenders Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso), Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo), and Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco); midfielders Yassine Abdi (Tunisia), Carlos Baleba (Cameroon), Lookman (Nigeria), and Brahim Díaz (Morocco); with Sadio Mané (Senegal), Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast), and Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) leading the line.

While Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle was named Group Stage Coach.

Despite starting all three group matches, Osimhen, was left out. The Galatasaray striker captained Nigeria in the final group game against Uganda, playing close to 90 minutes as the Super Eagles secured a 3–1 win.

Nigeria scored eight goals across three matches, but Osimhen’s relative lack of goals may have contributed to CAF’s decision.

Nigeria topped Group C with wins over Tanzania (2–1), Tunisia (3–2), and Uganda (3–1), collecting nine points and averaging 2.7 goals per game, their most productive group stage since 2008.

The Super Eagles now turn their attention to a Round of 16 clash against Mozambique on January 5.