Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman praised Nigeria’s collective performance after playing a central role in the Super Eagles dramatic 3-2 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory over Tunisia.
The winger was named Man of the Match in Saturday’s Group C clash in Morocco, scoring once and providing two assists as Nigeria surged into a commanding three-goal lead before withstanding a late Tunisian fightback.
Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi also found the net, breaking down a defence that had not conceded during World Cup qualifying.
Photo Credit: Imago
Reflecting on his early impact in the tournament, Lookman said: “Keep on working hard, keep on playing with the same focus. I think the team has been strong in our performances, which has allowed us four players to have the space and create the chances that we have.”
After two group matches, he has already registered four goal involvements more than any other player at AFCON 2025.
Lookman was central to Nigeria’s attacking play. He delivered the cross for Osimhen’s first-half header, set up Ndidi early in the second half, and then capped his own performance with a goal to make it 3-0. At that stage, Nigeria seemed to have the game under control.
Photo Credit: AFP
But Tunisia staged a late rally, with Montassar Talbi heading in from a set piece before a penalty reduced the deficit to one goal, forcing a tense finish. Nigeria held on through stoppage time, confirming progression to the last 16 and extending their run of consecutive AFCON knockout appearances.
READ MORE:nightmares-chelle-reflects-on-tense-super-eagles-finish-in-afcon-win-over-tunisia
Asked about his Man of the Match award, Lookman remained grounded.
“This is a nice gift, but the most important is the frequency. We want to win games, we have to win games. Just the mindset to try and be there every single day. Not every day is going to be perfect, not every day is going to be great, but as long as you keep showing up, it’s going to be good.”
Lookman with his MVP award. Photo Credit: CAF
He also highlighted the team’s ambition and drive: “It gives us more confidence for sure, more confidence to keep on continuing the way that we are continuing. We know the focus of our performance is good, so keep on going in that way. I think we showed that we are very keen on getting the results, we want to win, we have that drive, we have that focus.”
Lookman did not forget the fans, who have been crucial in creating a positive atmosphere: “Keep supporting us, we really need you. Keep being behind us and supporting us.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Nigeria face Uganda in their final group fixture, with a positive result enough to secure top spot in Group C and a favourable draw in the knockout stage.
