The Super Eagles of Nigeria continue to stamp their authority on the continental football scene as stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman were named in the prestigious 2024 Africa Best XI. The dynamic duo joins an elite lineup featuring global stars such as Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, solidifying Nigeria’s reputation as a football powerhouse.

The announcement came on the heels of Lookman’s crowning as the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year, succeeding Osimhen, who clinched the award in 2023. Together, they form a formidable attacking trio alongside Salah, a testament to their influence and exceptional performances over the past year.

A Star-Studded XI

The Africa Best XI for 2024 includes some of the finest talents from the continent, blending defensive solidity, midfield creativity, and attacking prowess.

Goalkeeper: André Onana (Cameroon)
Defenders: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco), Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal), Chancel Mbemba (DR Congo), Mohammed Kudus (Ghana)
Midfielders: Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco), Franck Kessie (Ivory Coast), Yves Bissouma (Mali)
Forwards: Mohamed Salah (Egypt), Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)

This lineup reflects the depth of talent Africa boasts, with players excelling across top European leagues and the international stage.

The Nigerian Connection

Osimhen and Lookman’s inclusion is particularly significant for Nigeria, a country known for its rich football heritage. Osimhen, who led Napoli to a historic Serie A title in 2023, continues to be one of Europe’s most lethal strikers. Lookman, on the other hand, has been a revelation for Atalanta, showcasing flair, creativity, and consistency that earned him the CAF Player of the Year accolade.

Their achievements highlight a growing trend of Nigerian players dominating African football, as evidenced by back-to-back wins of the CAF Player of the Year award by Osimhen and Lookman.

Opinion: A Call to Harness the Momentum

The inclusion of Osimhen and Lookman in the Africa Best XI underscores the undeniable potential of Nigerian footballers. However, it also serves as a reminder of the importance of nurturing homegrown talent. While Nigeria has celebrated individual successes, translating this into consistent team achievements at international tournaments remains a challenge.

Investments in grassroots football, better infrastructure, and tactical discipline are crucial if Nigeria is to maximize its golden generation of players. The Super Eagles have the tools to dominate African football consistently, and the achievements of Osimhen and Lookman should inspire the team to aim for glory at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

A Bright Future for African Football

This year’s Africa Best XI is a celebration of the continent’s footballing brilliance. Players like Achraf Hakimi, Sofyan Amrabat, and Mohamed Salah continue to shine on global stages, raising the bar for African excellence.

For fans, the trio of Salah, Osimhen, and Lookman in attack is a tantalizing prospect—symbolizing the past, present, and future of African football. As these stars continue to dazzle, they carry the hopes and dreams of millions, proving that Africa remains a powerhouse in the beautiful game.

With the spotlight on them, it’s safe to say that the best is yet to come for Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Nigerian football as a whole.