Winger Ademola Lookman said Nigeria’s confidence continues to build at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Eagles “improving every single game” as they prepare to face Algeria’s Desert Foxes on Saturday in Marrakech.
The Atalanta forward has been Nigeria’s most influential player at the tournament and was again central to their attacking play, earning his second Man of the Match award.
Lookman has now registered three goals and five assists at this AFCON, taking his overall Africa Cup of Nations tally to seven goals.
“It’s been great,” Lookman said. “The team is improving every single game. It’s all goals today, so that’s positive for us.”
Operating in a fluid attacking trio, Lookman has combined effectively with Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen, helping Nigeria maintain a constant threat in the final third.
- Read more: Lookman Dismisses Talk of Rift With Osimhen
- Read more: Nigeria To Face Algeria In AFCON Quarter Finals
Despite a brief verbal exchange with Osimhen in the previous match, Lookman was quick to dismiss any suggestion of tension within the squad.
“Nothing happened, just a discussion on the pitch. That’s it,” he said. “In football, these things happen and you move on.”
“I don’t know what the big issue is. These things happen in football and you move on.”
Lookman says the responsibility of wearing the national colours continues to drive his performances.
“I get the opportunity to represent my country, and I know how much weight that bears,” he told reporters. “So I try to use that pressure and try to perform.”
With the Super Eagles now firmly focused on Saturday’s quarter-final against the Desert Foxes, Lookman is expecting a stern examination against one of the continent’s most experienced sides.
“The quarterfinals of the AFCON is something to look forward to,” he said. “Another big battle awaits us, so we need to be ready.”
Nigeria will once again look to Lookman’s inspiration as they chase a place in the AFCON semi-finals against the team that defeated them in 2019 in Egypt.