Ademola Lookman tops AFCON ratings as Osimhen, Adams and Ndidi join top five
Ademola Lookman has emerged as the standout performer at the Africa Cup of Nations, topping the WhoScored ratings chart with 8.81 after inspiring Nigeria to the quarter-finals. The Atalanta forward has three goals and four assists in four matches, underlining his influence in a Super Eagles side that has scored 12 times in Morocco.
Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams and Wilfred Ndidi join Lookman in the top five, making Nigeria the most represented nation among the tournament’s highest-rated players. Osimhen sits fourth with 7.61 after netting three goals, including a brace against Mozambique. Adams and Ndidi are joint fifth on 7.59, with Adams scoring his first AFCON goal in the round of 16 and Ndidi providing midfield stability.
Context adds weight to Nigeria’s dominance. Lookman was named Man of the Match in the 4-0 demolition of Mozambique, where he scored once and assisted twice, earning a place in the CAF Group Stage Best XI. The Super Eagles have won all four of their matches so far, chasing a first continental crown since 2013 and a fourth overall.
The flow of Nigeria’s campaign has been marked by attacking fluency and defensive discipline. Head coach Eric Chelle, named best coach of the group stage, has overseen a side that blends tactical organisation with individual brilliance. Lookman’s creativity, Osimhen’s finishing, Adams’ emergence and Ndidi’s control have given Nigeria balance across the pitch.
Key incidents in the ratings table highlight the competition’s star power. Mohamed Salah is second on 8.13, while Sadio Mané ranks third with 7.82. Ivorian winger Yan Diomande (7.58) and Riyad Mahrez (7.55) also feature in the top ten, alongside Amad Diallo and Brahim Diaz.
The goals have flowed for Nigeria, with Lookman and Osimhen leading the charge. Adams’ strike against Mozambique added depth to their attacking options, while Ndidi’s consistency has ensured control in midfield.
The second half of the tournament now brings greater pressure. Nigeria face Algeria in Marrakech on Friday, a repeat of the 2019 semi-final when Mahrez’s late free kick sent the Desert Foxes to the final. Algeria went on to lift the trophy, their second continental title.
Late drama could again define the clash, with Nigeria seeking revenge and Algeria aiming to reassert themselves. The Super Eagles will rely on their in-form quartet to maintain momentum.
Closing the build-up, Nigeria’s presence at the top of the AFCON ratings reflects both individual brilliance and collective strength. With Lookman leading the charts and Osimhen, Adams and Ndidi close behind, the Super Eagles enter the quarter-finals with confidence and a clear ambition to reclaim continental glory.