Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has issued a confident rallying cry ahead of Nigeria's crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinal showdown against Algeria this Saturday, January 10, in Marrakech, Morocco.
We'll Be Aggressive and Ready - Lookman's Declaration
The Atalanta forward, who has been the standout performer for Nigeria, emphasized that the team will maintain its assertive style. Lookman stated that the squad is both physically robust and mentally prepared for the challenge posed by the North African giants.
"Everyone is physically strong. It’s about meeting them on the field, being intelligent, and being ready," Lookman said in comments reported by CAF. He added, "Same mentality from the team, same mentality to win, to be aggressive on the ball."
The 28-year-old highlighted the team's steady improvement throughout the tournament, culminating in a dominant 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16, their first clean sheet of AFCON 2025.
Lookman's Record-Breaking Tournament Form
Ademola Lookman's influence has been pivotal to Nigeria's unbeaten run. His performances have earned him two Player of the Match awards, against Tunisia and Mozambique, and a place in the official group stage Best XI.
He has scored decisive goals in three matches so far: the winner against Tanzania in the opener, the crucial goal versus Tunisia, and another in the rout of Mozambique. His form has been so exceptional that he has set a new tournament record, breaking one that stood since 2010.
The match against Mozambique was not without a minor controversy, as Lookman was involved in a brief heated exchange with star striker Victor Osimhen, an incident that sparked discussions among fans online.
The Stage Is Set for a Classic Quarterfinal
This clash promises to be a titanic battle between two unbeaten sides. Nigeria, the Super Eagles, have scored 12 goals and conceded 4 in their four matches. Their opponents, Algeria's Desert Foxes, boast an even tighter defense, having netted 8 goals while allowing just 1.
Lookman acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion, calling the AFCON quarterfinal "something to look forward to." He sent a message of belief to the team and the nation's supporters: "Another big battle awaits us, so we need to be ready. Keep on focusing, keep on believing in yourself. Good things will come."
The match revives memories of the 2019 semifinal, where Riyad Mahrez's last-minute free-kick won it for Algeria. Mahrez has already sent a message to Nigeria, hinting at the possibility of another dramatic set-piece. All signs point to a thrilling encounter as the Super Eagles, led by their in-form winger, aim to soar into the last four.
