Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have been named in the prestigious CAF FIFPro Best XI, highlighting their outstanding performances for club and country. The accolade recognises their contributions to African football and showcases their global impact.
Ademola Lookman earned his spot through exceptional displays for Atalanta, including key goals and decisive moments that solidified his growing reputation. His stellar form also earned him the coveted African Player of the Year award. Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen, despite challenges this season with Napoli, continued his prolific scoring form, netting 10 goals and providing five assists across all competitions.
The CAF FIFPro Best XI lineup features prominent stars from across the globe. Manchester United’s Andre Onana leads the team as goalkeeper, while Hakimi, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Chancel Mbemba make up the formidable defensive line. The midfield boasts talents like Mohammed Kudus (West Ham), Sofyan Amrabat (Fenerbahce), Franck Kessie (Al-Ahli), and Yves Bissouma (Tottenham Hotspur). The attacking trio includes Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) alongside Osimhen and Lookman, forming a dynamic front line.
This recognition not only celebrates individual brilliance but also reinforces the growing influence of African football on the global stage.
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Editorial
The inclusion of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman in the CAF FIFPro Best XI underscores the resurgence of Nigerian football on the continental and global stage. These players represent not only their achievements but also the quality and potential of African talent. Lookman’s rise to prominence this year with Atalanta has been particularly inspiring. After years of inconsistency, he has matured into a world class forward, and his recent award as African Player of the Year is a testament to his hard work and perseverance.
Victor Osimhen, on the other hand, remains a beacon of Nigerian football. Despite Napoli’s mixed season, his scoring consistency reflects his importance and status as one of the world’s top strikers. His inclusion in the Best XI reminds us of his dominance and influence both for the club and the Super Eagles.
This year’s CAF FIFPro team also reflects the evolving balance of African football, with players like Kudus, Amrabat, and Koulibaly proving their worth in top leagues. It is a positive development that African footballers are now widely celebrated and consistently performing at elite levels.
For Nigeria, this recognition brings pride and inspiration. It sets a standard for younger generations, showing that talent combined with dedication can achieve global recognition. As Nigerian football continues to develop, Osimhen and Lookman will serve as role models, pushing the next generation to aim higher.
Did You Know?
- Ademola Lookman scored a hat-trick in the 2023 UEFA Europa League final to secure Atalanta’s historic win.
- Victor Osimhen was the top scorer in Serie A for the 2022/2023 season, becoming the first African to win the award.
- Manchester United’s Andre Onana, named in the Best XI, is the first Cameroonian goalkeeper to feature in the lineup.
- Mohamed Salah has been included in the CAF FIFPro Best XI multiple times, reflecting his consistent excellence for Liverpool.
- The CAF FIFPro Best XI is an annual award voted on by professional footballers across Africa, recognising the continent’s top performers.
