The Super Eagles of Nigeria may have finished third at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, but their numbers from the tournament tell a better story.
Eric Chelle’s side left Morocco as the competition’s highest scoring team, racking up 14 goals across the tournament. Their approach was not just about goals either. Nigeria recorded the highest average ball possession at 66 per cent.
The Super Eagles also enjoyed the longest winning run at the tournament, putting together five consecutive victories at one stage. It was a sequence that showcased their ability to manage games and deliver results under pressure.
On an individual level, Ademola Lookman emerged as one of the standout performers of the competition. The Atalanta winger was named Best Playmaker of the Tournament after providing four assists, a reward for his vision, movement and consistency in the final third.
Despite their strong showing, Nigeria settled for third place overall, finishing behind hosts Morocco and eventual champions Senegal.
While Nigeria dominated the attacking charts, the defensive honours went elsewhere. According to a post on CAF’s official website, four countries shared the title of best defence at AFCON 2025.
Morocco, Senegal, DR Congo and Comoros each conceded just two goals throughout the tournament, a remarkable defensive return over several matches.
Senegal went on to lift the trophy after beating Morocco 1-0 in the final, with Pape Gueye scoring the decisive goal. Morocco and Senegal both reached the final, while DR Congo were knocked out in the round of 16 by Algeria.
Comoros, meanwhile, exited at the group stage after collecting two points from three matches in Group A.
