Nigeria’s primary creative engine Ademola Lookman believes the Super Eagles possess the growing momentum and tactical intelligence necessary to overcome Algeria in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final. The Nigerian squad arrived in Marrakesh on Thursday to finalize their preparations for Saturday’s showdown at the Marrakesh Stadium, with the winner moving one step closer to the tournament’s final four.
Lookman, who currently stars for Atalanta, has emerged as the most prolific contributor in Morocco, amassing a tournament-high seven goal involvements consisting of three goals and four assists across four matches.
The 28-year-old winger has already secured two Man of the Match awards during this campaign, further establishing his status as one of Africa’s elite performers. His recent form brings his total AFCON tally to seven goals and five assists across two editions of the competition. Despite the squad recently navigating an internal distraction regarding a bonus dispute—which captain Wilfred Ndidi offered to personally resolve to maintain focus—Lookman insists that the team remains physically and mentally prepared for the tactical challenge the Desert Foxes will present.
“The quarter-finals of the AFCON is something to look forward to,” Lookman told CAFOnline. “Another big battle awaits us, so we need to be ready. Everyone is physically strong. It’s about meeting them on the field, being intelligent, and being ready. Same mentality from the team. Same mentality to win, to be aggressive on the ball.”
Lookman’s effectiveness stems from his seamless integration into a high-octane attacking trio alongside Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams. While a heated on-field exchange between Lookman and Osimhen during their 4-0 win over Mozambique sparked social media speculation about a rift, the winger dismissed these rumors as part of the game’s natural intensity. He emphasized that the bond between the players remains strong and that the focus remains entirely on collective success rather than individual grievances.
“Nothing happened, just a discussion on the pitch. That’s it. In football, these things happen and you move on,” Lookman stated regarding the incident.
Saturday’s fixture serves as a significant rematch of the 2019 semi-final, where a last-gasp free kick from Riyad Mahrez secured a 2-1 victory for Algeria on their way to lifting the trophy. Since that triumph, the Algerians have struggled to replicate their form, suffering group-stage exits in the following two tournaments, whereas Nigeria achieved a runner-up finish in 2023. As the Super Eagles chase their first continental title since 2013, Lookman’s ability to unlock defenses will likely decide whether Nigeria can exact revenge on their North African rivals and advance to the semi-finals.
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