5 Super Eagles Players That Won Nigerians’ Hearts During 2023 AFCON

At the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Cote d’Ivoire, some Super Eagles players captured the hearts of Nigerians with their outstanding performances and contributions to the success of the team.

The Super Eagles put up one of the best performances at the competition and only lost in the final to host Cote d’Ivoire.

The Jose Peseiro-led side scored seven goals, conceded three, and kept five clean sheets in the competition.

Here, we highlight the top five Super Eagles players who endeared themselves to Nigerians during AFCON 2023.

William Troost-Ekong

The Super Eagles captain at the tournament proved to be a worthy leader, as he led the team to the final against host Cote d’Ivoire.

Aside from his defensive capabilities, where the Super Eagles only conceded in the first and final game of the competition, Ekong scored three goals in the tournament.

His emulable performance earned him the Player of the Year and an inclusion in the Team of the Tournament, with many Nigerians singing his praises as a true leader.

Ademola Lookman

Lookman was one of the nine debutants named by Jose Pesiro for the Super Eagles at the 2023 AFCON.

His skillful and creative style of play added versatility and attacking flair to the Eagles’ forward line, where he also provided an assist.

The Atalanta forward scored three goals in the tournament, including a brace in the 2-0 win over familiar foe Cameroon in the round of 16. He was also named in the team of the tournament.

Stanley Nwabali

Stanley Nwabali was a shock inclusion for many on the final list for Super Eagles, as Nigerians worry about the goalkeeping department before the start of the tournament.

Nwabali’s heroics in the first game won the hearts of many Nigerians, and he became the Eagles’ first-choice keeper, helping to win a silver medal at the 2023 AFCON.

The 27-year-old Chippa United shot-stopper conceded three goals in the competition, keeping five clean sheets in the process for the Super Eagles.

Ola Aina

Ola Aina was one of the standout players for the Super Eagles at the tournament with his solid defensive work and his contribution on the offensive.

Aina was deservedly named in the team of the tournament, with many singing his praises for his performances.

The Nottingham Forest right back has expressed his disappointment at not winning the tournament for the Super Eagles and Nigerians in his third AFCON tournament.

Victor Osimhen

The reigning African Footballer of the Year put up a commendable performance for the Super Eagles at AFCON 2023.

Despite only scoring once in the competition, his tireless performance and teamwork were applaudable, with many fans singing his name after games at the tournament.

Although not named in the team of the tournament, Osimhen’s teamwork and burning desire to win helped the Super Eagles to a second-place finish.