Super Eagles forward and 2024 African Footballer of the Year, Ademola Lookman, has publicly expressed his disappointment over the Confederation of African Football's (CAF) decision to change the Africa Cup of Nations tournament cycle.
Lookman's Reaction to the Controversial Change
In a recent interview with Ademola Victor TV, the Nigerian international described the shift from a biennial to a quadrennial event as a "shame" for the continent. The change, announced by CAF President Patrice Motsepe ahead of AFCON 2025 in Morocco, means the tournament will now be held every four years starting from 2028.
"The decision has been made, we can’t really change it," Lookman stated. "It is a shame as Africans are not able to get the tournament every two years like we are used to. It is a disappointment." His comments add to the significant backlash the decision has received from fans, media, coaches, and other stakeholders across the continent.
CAF's New Tournament Structure and Lookman's AFCON Focus
CAF confirmed in an official statement that the 2027 edition, to be jointly hosted by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, will proceed as scheduled. The new four-year cycle will then begin with tournaments in 2028 and 2032. To address the gap created by the extended cycle, CAF has introduced the African Nations League, set to commence in 2029.
Despite his criticism of the calendar change, Lookman shifted his focus to Nigeria's ongoing campaign at AFCON 2025 in Morocco. He emphasized the Super Eagles' determination to win a fourth continental title, stating the team fears no opponent.
"Three wins from three games, nine points. It's positive for us, going in the right direction, and we want to continue this way," he said, reflecting on Nigeria's strong group stage performance. "We want to continue to face everybody in this competition because if you want to win a tournament, you have to face the best."
Record-Breaking Performance and Tournament Confidence
Lookman has been instrumental for Nigeria in the tournament, contributing two goals and two assists in matches against Tanzania and Tunisia to help secure the team's place in the knockout stages. His form has been so exceptional that he has set a new record, achieving the most goal contributions (eight) across the 2023 and 2025 AFCON editions, surpassing even teammate Victor Osimhen.
When asked about preferred knockout stage opponents, the Atalanta forward was unequivocal. "No team you want to avoid, that's just the reality. I have respect for everybody, but if you want to win a tournament, you have to play the best," he asserted, showcasing the confidence running through the Nigerian squad as they pursue AFCON glory.
