Lookman: Nigeria Ready for ‘Big Battle’ Against Algeria

Ademola Lookman believes Nigeria’s confidence is growing with each game at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations as the Super Eagles prepare for a high-stakes quarter-final clash against Algeria’s Desert Foxes in Marrakech on Saturday.

The Atalanta forward has been Nigeria’s standout performer, collecting his second Man of the Match award after another influential display.

Lookman has now scored three goals and provided four assists at this tournament, taking his overall AFCON tally to six goals.

‘The team is improving every single game,’ he said after their last outing. ‘It’s all goals today, so that’s positive for us.’

Lookman has thrived in Nigeria’s fluid attacking trio alongside Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen, a combination that has kept opponents under constant pressure.

He was quick to dismiss suggestions of tension after a brief on-field exchange with Osimhen in the previous match, describing it simply as ‘a discussion on the pitch’ and insisting such moments are normal in football.

For Lookman, the responsibility of wearing Nigeria’s colours is a source of motivation. ‘I get the opportunity to represent my country, and I know how much weight that bears,’ he explained.

‘So I try to use that pressure and perform.’

Looking ahead to Saturday’s showdown, Lookman expects a stern test against Algeria, the 2019 champions who eliminated Nigeria in the semi-finals of that edition.

‘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 stressed the physical and tactical demands of the competition, noting that ‘everyone is physically strong’ and that success will depend on intelligence and readiness on the field.

The winger also offered encouragement beyond football, urging supporters and those facing challenges to ‘keep on focusing, keep on believing in yourself. Good things will come.’

Nigeria will once again look to Lookman’s inspiration as they aim to reach the semi-finals and avenge their 2019 defeat to Algeria.