The organisers of the UEFA Europa League have issued a powerful vote of confidence in Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman as he prepares for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
European Recognition for Nigerian Star
The competition, where Lookman made history, has publicly thrown its weight behind the Atalanta winger. This gesture comes just days before Nigeria begins its quest for a fourth continental title. Lookman was named in coach Eric Chelle's final 28-man squad on December 11, having been included in the initial 54-man provisional list.
The 28-year-old is aiming to go one better than his second-place finish at the 2023 AFCON, which was held in 2024. His journey to Morocco follows a mixed period, having missed Nigeria's last match, a 4-0 victory over Benin Republic, due to a one-match ban from the 2026 World Cup playoffs. He also did not feature in the recent 2-1 friendly defeat to Egypt on December 16.
The Historic Hat-Trick That Earned Respect
The UEFA Europa League's message is rooted in Lookman's legendary performance in the 2023/24 final. Lookman scored a stunning hat-trick to lead Atalanta to a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, securing the Italian club's first major trophy. This feat made him the first Nigerian ever to score a hat-trick in a Europa League final.
That career-defining moment, followed by him being crowned CAF Player of the Year, cemented his status as a player for the big occasion. Despite limited playing time at the start of the current season, his quality and big-game mentality were deemed indispensable for the national team's AFCON ambitions.
Fan Reactions and National Expectations
The show of support from Europe has ignited passionate reactions from Nigerian fans online. Many see it as a deserved acknowledgment of a player who has carried his club form onto the international stage. Supporters are hoping this endorsement translates into match-winning performances in Morocco.
Nigeria will open its Group Stage campaign against Tanzania on December 23. The Super Eagles, under coach Eric Chelle, will be looking to build on their recent triumph in the 2025 Unity Cup, where they defeated Jamaica on penalties. However, former international Mohammed Gambo has warned that the team's chances hinge heavily on the tactical decisions of Coach Chelle.
As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on Ademola Lookman to see if he can replicate his European heroics on African soil and help lead the Super Eagles to glory.
