CAF lists Osimhen, Lookman, Bruno in AFCON 2025 Best XI

By Tosin Omojola –

There was no place for rock-solid defender Calvin Bassey, as three Super Eagles players — Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman and left-back Bruno Onyemaechi — were listed in the just-concluded Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 Best XI.

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled its official Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, recognising standout performers from a competition that ended on Sunday with Senegal’s 1–0 extra-time victory over hosts Morocco in the final.

The Senegalese dominated the selection, having the highest number of players after an impressive campaign that culminated in their second AFCON title.

Osimhen and Lookman were included after playing key roles in Nigeria’s third-place finish, with Osimhen scoring four goals and providing two assists during the tournament, while Lookman scored three goals and registered four assists, underlining their attacking influence throughout the competition.

However, the omission of Bassey drew some surprise, particularly given his solid displays in the knockout stages, including the semi-final encounter against Morocco.

CAF’s defensive selections were largely drawn from the finalist nations, with Senegal and Morocco dominating the backline. The midfield was similarly influenced by Senegal’s presence, reflecting their consistency and control across the tournament.

Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy was named between the posts, while teammates Krépin Diatta, Mamadou Sangare and Idrissa Gueye were included in defensive and midfield roles. Star forward Sadio Mané was named Player of the Tournament after leading the Teranga Lions to glory.

Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Rami Rabia also made the Best XI, while Morocco’s Noussair Mazraoui earned selection despite the hosts’ defeat in the final. Morocco, however, claimed several individual honours, with Brahim Díaz finishing as top scorer to win the Golden Boot, Yassine Bounou named Best Goalkeeper, and the hosts receiving the Fair Play Award.

CAF’s Best XI for AFCON 2025 comprises: Édouard Mendy; Noussair Mazraoui, Rami Rabia, Bruno Onyemaechi, Krépin Diatta; Mamadou Sangare, Idrissa Gueye; Mohamed Salah, Ademola Lookman, Sadio Mané; and Victor Osimhen.