Rabat, Morocco – The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has unveiled the official Team of the Tournament for the TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, with Nigeria's Super Eagles claiming three prestigious spots through standout performers Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Calvin Bassey. The announcement, made by the CAF Technical Study Group (TSG) on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, recognizes the players who delivered exceptional performances across the competition held from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
Senegal emerged as champions, securing their second continental title by defeating hosts Morocco 1-0 in a dramatic and controversial final at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. Pape Gueye's thunderous strike in the first period of extra time proved decisive after a goalless 90 minutes marred by chaos, including a brief walk-off by Senegal players protesting a late penalty decision awarded to Morocco via VAR. Brahim Díaz missed that stoppage-time penalty, which would have given the Atlas Lions the lead. The victory marked Senegal's triumph in a tournament filled with high drama, intense rivalries, and memorable moments.
Nigeria, under coach Eric Chelle, finished third, claiming bronze for the ninth time in their history after defeating Egypt in a penalty shootout in the third-place playoff. The Super Eagles' campaign was highlighted by resilient defending, creative attacking play, and key individual contributions that earned three players selection in the Best XI.
Victor Osimhen, the Napoli forward, was a focal point in Nigeria's attack, netting four goals and providing two assists. His physical presence, aerial dominance, and clinical finishing terrorized opposition defenses throughout the knockout stages, helping the team advance deep into the competition. Osimhen's performances underscored his status as one of Africa's premier strikers, building on his previous successes at club level.
Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta winger, emerged as one of the tournament's most influential players, recording the highest goal contributions overall with four goals and three assists. His flair, dribbling ability, and work rate made him a constant threat on the flanks, earning him a place in the Team of the Tournament for the second consecutive AFCON. Lookman's creativity and consistency were pivotal in Nigeria's attacking transitions, often unlocking stubborn defenses.
Calvin Bassey, the 26-year-old defender now plying his trade in Europe, anchored the Super Eagles' backline with composure and authority. His solid displays helped Nigeria keep clean sheets through much of the knockout phase, including crucial shutouts that propelled the team toward the bronze medal. Bassey's aerial prowess, timely interceptions, and leadership from the back were instrumental in a defense that conceded few clear chances against top opposition.
The CAF TSG's selection reflects the tournament's competitive balance, with champions Senegal and runners-up Morocco dominating the list, each contributing four players. The full Team of the Tournament is as follows:
- Goalkeeper: Yassine Bounou (Morocco) – The experienced shot-stopper was named Best Goalkeeper after a string of commanding performances, including multiple clean sheets that guided Morocco to the final on home soil.
- Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Calvin Bassey (Nigeria), Moussa Niakhaté (Senegal), Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco) – This back four combined pace, technical quality, and defensive solidity, with Hakimi and Mazraoui providing dynamic overlaps from the full-back positions.
- Midfielders: Idrissa Gueye (Senegal), Pape Gueye (Senegal) – The Senegalese duo controlled the engine room, blending defensive tenacity with creative distribution. Pape Gueye's extra-time winner in the final cemented his impact.
- Forwards: Sadio Mané (Senegal), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Brahim Díaz (Morocco) – Mané, named Player of the Tournament, led by example with decisive contributions throughout Senegal's title run. Díaz claimed the Puma Golden Boot as top scorer with five goals, scoring in five consecutive matches—a new AFCON record—despite the heartbreak of the final.
Sadio Mané's recognition as the competition’s best player highlighted his leadership and influence, guiding Senegal to glory in what was a challenging campaign marked by resilience. Yassine Bounou's Best Goalkeeper award further emphasized Morocco's strong showing despite falling short in the final.
The 2025 edition of AFCON, hosted by Morocco after earlier logistical adjustments, featured intense group stages, thrilling knockouts, and a final that descended into controversy. Senegal's brief protest in the dying moments of regulation time—sparked by a disputed penalty—delayed proceedings but ultimately did not derail their path to victory. The tournament showcased Africa's growing football talent, with emerging stars and established names delivering high-quality performances.
Nigeria's bronze medal finish, coupled with three inclusions in the Team of the Tournament, signals a positive trajectory for the Super Eagles as they look ahead to future competitions. The selections of Osimhen, Lookman, and Bassey affirm the depth within the squad and their ability to compete at the highest level on the continent.
Analysts have praised the TSG's choices for balancing individual brilliance with team success, noting the dominance of Senegal and Morocco while acknowledging Nigeria's strong showing. The inclusion of three Nigerians underscores the Super Eagles' attacking flair and defensive resilience, even in a tournament won by Senegal.
As African football reflects on the Morocco 2025 chapter, the focus shifts to club competitions and World Cup qualifiers, with many of these stars set to carry their form forward. The Team of the Tournament serves as a fitting tribute to a memorable AFCON that delivered drama, quality, and unforgettable moments.
