Nigeria’s confidence continues to build ahead of their crucial 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final showdown, with Ademola Lookman assuring fans that the Super Eagles are mentally sharp and physically prepared for the test against Algeria in Marrakech.
The team arrived in the Moroccan city on Thursday, gearing up for Saturday’s highly anticipated meeting with the Desert Foxes — a fixture rich in history and significance as Nigeria pushes for a fourth AFCON title.
Lookman has been Nigeria’s standout performer throughout the competition, serving as the creative engine of the squad. The Atalanta forward has already notched three goals and four assists, earning two Man of the Match awards. His overall record across two AFCON tournaments now stands at six goals and five assists.
Speaking ahead of the quarter-final, Lookman stressed that the squad remains focused despite recent off-field distractions.
“The AFCON quarter-finals are something to be excited about,” he told CAFOnline.
“We have another big test ahead, so we must be prepared. Everybody is physically strong,” Lookman said. “It’s about stepping onto the pitch, staying smart, and being ready.
“Same mindset from the team — the hunger to win and be aggressive with the ball.”
Nigeria’s attacking fluidity has been one of the defining features of the tournament, with Lookman linking up seamlessly with Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen. Their movement, creativity and direct play have consistently unsettled opposing defences, making the Super Eagles one of the most dangerous attacking units in the competition.
A momentary on-field exchange between Lookman and Osimhen in the previous match sparked rumours of tension, but the winger dismissed the speculation immediately.
“Nothing happened — it was just a conversation on the pitch,” he clarified. “These things happen in football, and you move on.”
Saturday’s encounter also rekindles memories of a painful chapter in Nigeria’s football history. At the 2019 AFCON semi-final, Algeria defeated the Super Eagles 2–1 with a late free kick from Riyad Mahrez before going on to win the trophy — their second in history.
However, the Desert Foxes have struggled to maintain their dominance since then, suffering group-stage exits in both the 2021 and 2023 editions. Nigeria, meanwhile, reached the final in the last tournament, reinforcing their status as one of the continent’s elite sides.
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