Super Eagles Trio Shine in CAF's Prestigious 2023 AFCON Best XI
In a remarkable showcase of talent and determination, three Nigerian football stars have been honoured with spots in the Confederation of African Football CAF Best XI for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON. The technical prowess and on-field achievements of Chelsea trained fullback Ola Aina, team captain William Troost-Ekong, and the versatile Ademola Lookman have been officially recognized, highlighting their significant contributions to the tournament.
Ola Aina, known for his agility and defensive acumen, alongside William Troost-Ekong, has been pivotal in Nigeria's impressive defensive record throughout the tournament, contributing to four consecutive clean sheets. Their efforts were nearly extended to a fifth if not for a last-minute penalty goal by South Africa's Teboho Mokoena in the semifinals. Troost-Ekong, in particular, showcased his leadership and scoring ability, netting three goals and playing every minute of the tournament, barring the group stage match against Guinea-Bissau, earning him the Best Player award.
Ademola Lookman, another dual-national talent, has also made his mark, demonstrating his skill and versatility across the tournament. The trio's performance was instrumental in Nigeria's deep run in the competition, with Aina facing a challenging duel in the final against Simon Adingra of Brighton & Hove Albion, despite an otherwise stellar tournament showing.
The Best XI is rounded out by players from the championship team, Ivory Coast, and other notable performers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, and Equatorial Guinea, showcasing the depth of talent across the continent.
In a remarkable showcase of talent and determination, three Nigerian football stars have been honoured with spots in the Confederation of African Football CAF Best XI for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON. The technical prowess and on-field achievements of Chelsea trained fullback Ola Aina, team captain William Troost-Ekong, and the versatile Ademola Lookman have been officially recognized, highlighting their significant contributions to the tournament.
Ola Aina, known for his agility and defensive acumen, alongside William Troost-Ekong, has been pivotal in Nigeria's impressive defensive record throughout the tournament, contributing to four consecutive clean sheets. Their efforts were nearly extended to a fifth if not for a last-minute penalty goal by South Africa's Teboho Mokoena in the semifinals. Troost-Ekong, in particular, showcased his leadership and scoring ability, netting three goals and playing every minute of the tournament, barring the group stage match against Guinea-Bissau, earning him the Best Player award.
Ademola Lookman, another dual-national talent, has also made his mark, demonstrating his skill and versatility across the tournament. The trio's performance was instrumental in Nigeria's deep run in the competition, with Aina facing a challenging duel in the final against Simon Adingra of Brighton & Hove Albion, despite an otherwise stellar tournament showing.
The Best XI is rounded out by players from the championship team, Ivory Coast, and other notable performers from the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Africa, and Equatorial Guinea, showcasing the depth of talent across the continent.