Ademola Lookman: Nigeria’s Unexpected ‘Starboy’ Driving AFCON Success
Ademola Lookman, the quiet and reserved winger for Nigeria’s national team, has been making a significant impact in the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament. Despite his unassuming persona off the pitch, Lookman’s performances have been nothing short of electric, propelling Nigeria to success in the competition.
Lookman’s standout moment came in the quarter-final match against Angola, where he scored the winning goal just before halftime, securing Nigeria’s place in the semi-finals. This victory puts them one step closer to lifting the AFCON trophy for the first time since 2013.
Interestingly, the focus leading up to the tournament was on another Nigerian international forward, Victor Osimhen, who plays in Serie A. Osimhen, the reigning men’s African Footballer of the Year, had an impressive season, finishing as the league’s top scorer with 26 goals. However, it is Lookman who has emerged as the bigger threat in the tournament, scoring all three of Nigeria’s goals in the knockout phase and 50% of their overall total.
Lookman’s impact extends beyond his goalscoring abilities. He has shown a willingness to contribute defensively, tracking back and putting in a commendable work rate. This dedication sets him apart from other players and has earned him the admiration of his teammates.
This is Lookman’s first major tournament at the senior level, having previously represented England in the U-20 World Cup. Despite receiving multiple approaches from the Nigerian Football Federation, Lookman chose to switch his allegiance and made his debut for Nigeria in a World Cup qualification play-off against Ghana in March 2022.
Lookman shares a strong bond with his teammates, particularly with other British-born players like Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina. On the pitch, he is not afraid to assert himself and provide instructions to his fellow players, demonstrating his leadership qualities.
Although Lookman’s career has had its ups and downs, with notable moments at Everton, Fulham, and Leicester City, his best performances have come with continental clubs. Since joining Atalanta in August 2022, Lookman has scored more league goals in 18 months than in the previous five seasons combined.
His versatility is a valuable asset for Nigeria, as he can play anywhere across the front line. Lookman excels at cutting inside onto his right foot but has also shown his ability to ghost into the box and produce powerful finishes with his left foot, as seen in his goal against Angola.
Lookman’s defensive contributions have also been recognized by his teammates and coach. While the team’s system is designed to limit his defensive responsibilities, Lookman has still made important tackles and chased down opponents when needed.
Despite his reserved nature and dislike for attention, Lookman is putting forward a strong case for being one of the best players in the tournament. His performances have been instrumental in Nigeria’s success thus far, and he will undoubtedly continue to play a crucial role as they progress through the tournament.
In conclusion, Ademola Lookman’s unexpected rise as Nigeria’s “Starboy” in the AFCON tournament is a testament to his talent and dedication. His goalscoring prowess, defensive contributions, and leadership qualities have made him a key player for the Nigerian national team. As he continues to shine on the pitch, Lookman is proving that he deserves recognition as one of the top players at the tournament.