As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Rwanda, Nigeria’s newest football king, Ademola Lookman, has spoken about the honour of being crowned CAF African Player of the Year.
Speaking exclusively with journalists at the team’s training base in Kigali, the Atalanta forward expressed his pride in joining the prestigious list of past winners and how much the award means to him.
“Yeah, it’s a blessing, it’s a pleasure. It’s an honour, most definitely an honour. The people who have won the award, like my teammate, my brother Victor Osimhen last year, to be crowned like this is a blessing. It’s something I hold with great honour and great respect.”
Lookman’s Fairytale Rise to Africa’s Throne
Lookman’s journey to becoming Africa’s best reached a defining moment on Monday, December 16, 2024, in Marrakech, Morocco, where he was officially named the CAF African Footballer of the Year.
His stellar season with Atalanta and the Super Eagles made him an undisputed winner. The 27-year-old made history in May 2024, scoring a stunning hat-trick in the Europa League final to hand Atalanta their first-ever European title and only their second major trophy in 117 years.
He also played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON 2024 final, netting three goals before the Super Eagles fell agonizingly short against Ivory Coast.
Overall, Lookman delivered 17 goals and 10 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions for Atalanta during the 2023/24 season, proving his undeniable class at the highest level.
Upon receiving his award, Lookman reflected on his journey, saying:
Lookman’s Mindset Ahead of Rwanda Clash
Now, with club and individual accolades secured, Lookman’s focus shifts to international duty. Nigeria is winless in four qualifiers and desperately needs a victory to keep their World Cup dream alive. The Super Eagles’ new talisman will be expected to inspire the team when they take the field against Rwanda.
Will Lookman’s magic translate into the three points Nigeria desperately needs? Friday’s clash will provide the answers.
