Super Eagles forward, Ademola Lookman, has voiced strong optimism about Nigeria's chances as they gear up for a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final clash against Algeria this Saturday. The match, set for January 10, 2026, in Marrakech, Morocco, pits Nigeria against the 2019 champions, the Desert Foxes.
Lookman in Stellar Form for Super Eagles
The Atalanta attacker has been the standout performer for Nigeria in the tournament so far. His impressive tally includes three goals and five assists, earning him the Man of the Match award twice. This stellar performance has increased his overall AFCON goal count to seven. "It's been great," Lookman remarked following Nigeria's last match. "The team is improving every single game. It's all goals today, so that's positive for us."
Lookman has formed a formidable and feared attacking trio with Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen, ensuring the Super Eagles remain a constant threat in the final third of the pitch. His contributions have been pivotal to Nigeria's progression in the competition.
Dismissing Rumours, Embracing Pressure
Addressing a brief on-pitch exchange with Victor Osimhen in a previous game, Lookman firmly dismissed any suggestions of internal squad tension. "Nothing happened, just a discussion on the pitch. That's it," he stated. "In football, these things happen, and you move on." When asked if such moments could strengthen team bonds, he downplayed the incident's significance, adding, "I don't know what the big issue is. These things happen in football, and you move on."
Instead, Lookman highlighted the profound motivation he draws from representing his country. "I get the opportunity to represent my country, and I know how much weight that bears," he told reporters. "So I try to use that pressure and try to perform."
Gearing Up for a Continental Battle
With focus now entirely on the Saturday quarter-final, Lookman acknowledges the challenge posed by one of Africa's most experienced sides. "The quarterfinals of the AFCON is something to look forward to," he said. "Another big battle awaits us, so we need to be ready."
He emphasized the physical and tactical demands of facing a top opponent like Algeria. "Everyone is physically strong," Lookman explained. "It's about meeting them on the field, being intelligent, and being ready." The team's mindset, according to him, remains unwavering. "Same mentality from the team. Same mentality to win, to be aggressive on the ball."
Lookman's final message was one of belief and focus. "Keep on focusing, keep on believing in yourself. Good things will come," he concluded, as Nigeria aims to secure a place in the AFCON semi-finals and seek redemption against the team that defeated them in the 2019 edition.
