Ademola Lookman delivered a masterclass performance to fire Nigeria into the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, a feat that prompted a proud public message from his Italian club, Atalanta.
Lookman Orchestrates Super Eagles Victory
The crucial Group C clash at the Fez Stadium in Morocco on Saturday, December 27, saw the Super Eagles secure a dramatic 3-2 victory over Tunisia. The win guaranteed Nigeria's progression to the knockout stage with a game to spare.
Lookman was the undisputed architect of the triumph, directly involved in all three Nigerian goals. His influence was felt just before halftime when his pinpoint cross from the left found Victor Osimhen, who powered a header home to break the deadlock.
From Control to Chaos in Fez
Nigeria's dominance continued after the break. Just four minutes into the second half, Wilfred Ndidi headed home from another precise Lookman corner to double the lead. The winger then capped his stellar individual display by scoring himself in the 66th minute, finishing smartly after a clever cut-back from Osimhen to make it 3-0.
However, Tunisia mounted a fierce late comeback. Montassar Talbi scored in the 75th minute before a VAR-awarded penalty, converted by Ali Abdi in the 85th minute, set up a nervy finale. The Carthage Eagles came close to an equalizer in stoppage time, but Nigeria held on for a vital three points.
Atalanta's Proud Message and Lookman's Record
Lookman's Man of the Match performance, comprising one goal and two assists, did not go unnoticed back at his club. Atalanta celebrated their star on social media with a message that read: "The Super Eagles fly into the AFCON 2025 round of 16 ??. Ademola Lookman starred with a goal and two assists against Tunisia ?".
The 28-year-old forward is in scintillating form at the tournament. With two goals and two assists in just two matches, he leads the AFCON 2025 goal contribution charts. His latest display also etched his name in the tournament's recent history, as he now has five goals and three assists across the last two AFCON editions, a combined tally unmatched by any other player.
With six points, Nigeria now sits top of Group C. The Super Eagles will face Uganda in their final group match in Fez next Tuesday, while Tunisia must beat Tanzania in Rabat to keep their qualification hopes alive.
