Ademola Lookman says Nigeria are ready for a stern examination against Algeria after the Super Eagles confidence continued to grow at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Atalanta forward was speaking after another assured Nigerian performance against Mozambique which he believes highlighted the team’s steady progress through the tournament.
“It’s been great,” Lookman said. “The team is improving every single game. It’s all goals today, so that’s positive for us.”
Lookman. Photo Credit: Imago
Lookman has been Nigeria’s most influential player at AFCON 2025 and was again central to their attacking play, collecting his second Man of the Match award. He has now registered three goals and four assists at the tournament.
Operating in a fluid attacking trio alongside Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen, Lookman has helped Nigeria maintain a consistent threat in the final third.
With attention now turning to Saturday’s quarter-final in Marrakech, Lookman expects a demanding contest against the Desert Foxes, the 2019 champions.
“The quarter-finals of the AFCON is something to look forward to, another big battle awaits us, so we need to be ready.”
Lookman speaking in the post match press conference in Fes. Photo Credit: Imago
He also talked about the physical and tactical demands of the competition, stressing the need for intelligence as well as intensity.
“Everyone is physically strong, it’s about meeting them on the field, being intelligent, and being ready”Lookman explained.
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Maintaining focus and aggression will be key, he added. “Same mentality from the team, same mentality to win, to be aggressive on the ball.”
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Nigeria will look to Lookman’s form once again as they chase a semi-final place against an Algerian side that denied them continental glory in 2019.
