Reigning African Footballer of the Year Ademola Lookman has shared his thoughts on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match against Rwanda. Lookman, who won the 2024 CAF Player of the Year Award, is back with the national team for the first time since his impressive year with Atalanta and Nigeria.
Despite being crowned African Footballer of the Year, Lookman admitted that he doesn’t feel pressured to perform in his first game with the national team since winning the award. Instead, he is focused on the huge task ahead, with Nigeria facing crucial games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
The Super Eagles are in a precarious position, having picked up just three points from the opening four games and currently sitting fifth in Group C. New coach Eric Chelle will be aiming to turn around the campaign, and Lookman is expected to play a key role in achieving this goal.
Speaking after the team’s second training session in Kigali, Lookman emphasized the importance of winning both games against Rwanda and Zimbabwe to keep Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive. With his experience and skill, Lookman will be a crucial player in Nigeria’s quest for victory.
“No, no any pressure at all. I’m just glad to be back with the squad, back with the guys. We have a big task ahead of us and we’re looking forward to it,” he told OJB Sports
