Behold AFCON 2025 Deadliest Duo!
Lookman and Osimhen lead Super Eagles’ fearsome charge against Algeria
Nigeria’s Super Eagles are soaring into their Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final against Algeria armed with the most devastating attacking numbers of the tournament.
Ademola Lookman has emerged as the creative heartbeat of AFCON 2025, carving out more chances than any other player (12), while also leading the competition in goal involvements (7) and assists (4).
His influence has been relentless, ensuring Nigeria’s forward line remains the most feared in Morocco.
Alongside him, Victor Osimhen has been a constant menace. No player has been involved in more shots than the Galatasaray striker, who has registered 18 attempts and created six chances.
Together, Lookman and Osimhen have powered Nigeria to the top of the charts for fast-break football, with nine shots, two goals, and an unmatched xG of 1.53 from counter-attacks.
The depth of Nigeria’s firepower is further underlined by Akor Adams, who combined with Lookman to become only the second pair of teammates since 2010 to each contribute to at least three goals in a single AFCON match.
The last duo to achieve that feat? Algeria’s Islam Slimani and Adam Ounas in 2019, a reminder of the danger Nigeria now poses to the Fennecs.
Nigeria’s consistency at this stage of the competition is also unmatched. Alongside Côte d’Ivoire, they have reached the quarter-finals nine times in the 21st century, a record that speaks to their pedigree and resilience.
With Lookman pulling the strings, Osimhen leading the line, and Adams adding fresh energy, Algeria’s vaunted defence, the tightest in the tournament, faces its sternest test yet.
The Super Eagles have already shown they can dismantle opponents with ruthless efficiency, and Saturday’s clash in Marrakech promises to be a battle of Nigeria’s unstoppable attack against Algeria’s immovable defence.
