Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been handed major recognition by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) following an impressive group-stage showing at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Ademola Lookman was named in CAF’s Group Stage Best XI after a series of influential performances that helped Nigeria top their group. The Atalanta forward was deployed in a hybrid midfield role, contributing two goals and two assists in just two matches, including the winner against Tanzania and a goal plus two assists in the 3–2 victory over Tunisia.
CAF praised Lookman’s versatility, movement, and creativity, noting his ability to combine midfield control with attacking threat.
Head coach Eric Chelle also received top honours, emerging as CAF’s Best Coach of the Group Stage after guiding the Super Eagles to a perfect record. Nigeria won all three group matches, combining defensive organisation with fluid attacking play.
CAF credited Chelle’s tactical clarity, disciplined setup, and consistent team selection for Nigeria’s balance between structure and freedom, describing the Super Eagles as one of the tournament’s standout sides heading into the knockout rounds.
