Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman earned the Man of the Match award on Monday night following a masterful individual performance that led Nigeria to a commanding 4-0 victory over Mozambique. The 28-year-old Atalanta star dominated the Round of 16 encounter at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, directly involving himself in every goal as the Super Eagles dismantled their opponents to secure a quarter-final berth.
Lookman initiated the scoring in the 20th minute with a clinical strike and subsequently provided three assists, ensuring the Mambas had no answer for Nigeria’s offensive firepower.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year has enjoyed a prolific tournament in Morocco, amassing an incredible tally of three goals and five assists in just three appearances. His consistent brilliance has established him as the primary engine of the Nigerian attack, leading the competition in total goal involvements. Lookman’s ability to create and convert chances with equal efficiency has significantly enhanced the Super Eagles’ status as the favorites to reclaim the continental crown they last won in 2013.
Following his latest masterclass, football analysts across the continent now consider Lookman a frontrunner for the prestigious Player of the Tournament award. This recognition follows a pattern of excellence for the winger, who also secured the Player of the Match prize during Nigeria’s intense Group C victory over Tunisia. His form in Morocco continues the sensational momentum he built during the previous club season, where his historic hat-trick guided Atalanta to a maiden UEFA Europa League title.
Nigeria now advances to the final eight, where they will face the winner of the clash between Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Head coach Eric Chelle will rely heavily on Lookman’s creative vision and technical precision to navigate the increasingly difficult challenges of the knockout phase. Fans in Nigeria and beyond are closely watching the 28-year-old as he attempts to lead his nation to glory while potentially sweeping the individual honors at the tournament’s conclusion.
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