The Atalanta talisman is rewriting the record books at AFCON 2025, earning the ultimate endorsement from a Nigerian striking legend.
As the Super Eagles continue their relentless march toward continental glory, one name has risen above the rest, commanding the spotlight with a blend of clinical finishing and tactical intelligence. Ademola Lookman is no longer just a talented winger; he is the heartbeat of Nigeria’s attack—a transformation that has drawn glowing praise from 2019 AFCON Golden Boot winner, Odion Ighalo.
Lookman’s impact at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been nothing short of historic. With a direct hand in seven goals, the Atalanta forward has become the tournament’s most lethal offensive threat. His consistency is particularly striking: Lookman has found the net in every single match he has contested so far.
In doing so, he has entered an elite stratosphere, sharing the record for consecutive scoring outings with global icons Mohamed Salah and Brahim Díaz.
The winger’s “Man of the Match” performance during Nigeria’s 4-0 demolition of Mozambique served as a definitive statement of intent. Lookman didn’t just participate; he dominated, scoring once and providing two sublime assists. This display marked his second Player of the Match award of the tournament, cementing his status as the frontrunner for the Player of the Tournament accolade.
Speaking from the punditry desk at SuperSport, Ighalo was effusive in his admiration for how Lookman has embraced the green and white jersey since switching international allegiance.
“He has been one of the best Super Eagles players for quite some time now and he’s showing it in the game,” Ighalo remarked. “What I like about him is he knows how to position himself. If he’s not on the wing to cross the ball, he’s always in the box… When the chance comes, he always takes it.”
The Engine Room and the Road Ahead
While Lookman grabbed the headlines, Ighalo was careful to credit the structural brilliance of the team, specifically highlighting Alex Iwobi. The former Manchester United striker noted that Iwobi “engineered the midfield,” providing the stability and vision that allowed Lookman the freedom to devastate the Mozambican defense.
Ademola Lookman 7 Goal Involvements Scored in every match played
Alex Iwobi Midfield Maestro Orchestrated the 4-0 win vs Mozambique
The stakes are about to get significantly higher. Lookman and his teammates are now preparing for a heavyweight quarterfinal showdown against Algeria’s Desert Warriors. The clash, set for Saturday, January 10, at the Marrakesh Stadium, will be the ultimate test of Lookman’s red-hot form as Nigeria seeks to reclaim their throne as the kings of African football.
