A patient presents with a sudden onset of ipsilateral facial drooping, inability to close the eye, and loss of taste sensation on the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, without any other neurological deficits. Which cranial nerve is most likely affected?

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

The facial nerve (CN VII) innervates the muscles of facial expression, provides taste sensation to the anterior two-thirds of the tongue, and controls lacrimal and salivary glands. Unilateral facial drooping and loss of taste are classic signs of its dysfunction (e.g., Bell's palsy).