The Digest:
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the official Team of the Tournament for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, following Senegal’s victory in the final. Nigeria is represented by three players: striker Victor Osimhen, winger Ademola Lookman, and left-back Bruno Onyemaechi. Osimhen scored four goals and provided two assists, while Lookman contributed three goals and four assists during Nigeria’s third-place campaign. The omission of defender Calvin Bassey, despite his strong performances in the knockout stages, has drawn notable attention. Senegal dominated the selection with multiple inclusions after winning the tournament.
Key Points:
- Recognition boosts the profiles of Osimhen and Lookman, affirming their status among Africa’s elite footballers.
- Bassey’s exclusion may spark debate over defensive contributions versus attacking statistics in award selections.
- Senegal’s dominance in the Best XI reflects their all-round team strength and tournament success.
- The selections can influence player market value and club recognition following the international showcase.
- Timing reinforces ongoing discussions about the balance between individual accolades and team achievement in continental tournaments.
Sources: CAF, Complete Sports
