Nigerian football stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman have been named in the CAF FIFPro Men’s Best XI for 2024, a prestigious recognition of their stellar performances over the year.
Osimhen, the 2023 African Player of the Year, retained his spot in the elite lineup, cementing his reputation as one of Africa’s top strikers. The 25-year-old forward is joined in attack by his compatriot Ademola Lookman, who succeeded him as the 2024 CAF African Player of the Year, and Egypt’s iconic captain Mohamed Salah.
Celebrating Nigerian Excellence
This marks a moment of pride for Nigerian football as two of its brightest stars continue to dominate the continent’s footballing scene. Osimhen’s remarkable consistency in both club and international football, alongside Lookman’s rise to prominence, has positioned Nigeria as a key force in African football.
The Star-Studded XI
The Best XI features a mix of Africa’s finest talents across different positions:
- Goalkeeper: André Onana (Cameroon)
- Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal), Chancel Mbemba (DR Congo)
- Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco), Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast), Yves Bissouma (Mali)
- Forwards: Mohamed Salah (Egypt), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)
The selection underscores the impact these players have made both in African and international football, with their performances driving successes for their clubs and national teams.
A New Generation of Excellence
Lookman’s rise as Africa’s best player and his inclusion in this illustrious XI highlight a promising future for Nigerian football. Paired with Osimhen’s continued dominance, the duo exemplifies the talent, skill, and determination that the country consistently brings to the sport.
This recognition by CAF FIFPro not only celebrates individual achievements but also sets the stage for what is expected to be another exciting year for African football.