AFCON 2025: Ademola Lookman Backs Super Eagles To Rise Again Ahead Of Algeria Test

Nigeria’s belief continues to grow ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with Ademola Lookman insisting that the Super Eagles are mentally and physically ready for the quarter-final clash against Algeria in Marrakech.

The Nigerian squad touched down in the Moroccan city on Thursday ahead of Saturday’s showdown with the Desert Foxes. This fixture carries both history and high stakes as the Super Eagles chase a fourth continental crown.

Ademola Lookman has been the standout performer of the tournament so far, emerging as Nigeria’s creative heartbeat. The Atalanta forward has already registered three goals and four assists, earning two Man of the Match awards. Across two AFCON appearances, his tally now stands at six goals and five assists.

Speaking ahead of the decisive encounter, Lookman made it clear that Nigeria’s focus remains sharp despite off-field distractions earlier in the week.

“The quarter-finals of the AFCON are something to look forward to,” he told CAFOnline.

“Another big battle awaits us, so we need to be ready. Everyone is physically strong,” Lookman explained. “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.”

Nigeria’s attacking play has been a defining feature of the tournament, with Lookman operating in a fluid front line alongside Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen. Their movement and combination play have kept defences under constant pressure, making the Super Eagles one of the most dangerous sides going forward.

A brief on-field exchange between Lookman and Osimhen in the previous match sparked speculation, but the winger was quick to play down any talk of discord.

“Nothing happened, just a discussion on the pitch. That’s it,” he said. “In football, these things happen and you move on.”

Saturday’s match also revives memories of a painful past meeting between Nigeria and Algeria. At the 2019 AFCON semi-final, the Desert Foxes edged the Super Eagles 2-1, sealed by a late free kick from Riyad Mahrez. Algeria went on to lift the trophy, securing their second AFCON title.

Since that triumph, the North Africans have struggled to replicate their success, exiting at the group stage in both 2021 and 2023. Nigeria, by contrast, reached the final of the last edition in the Ivory Coast.