Lookman aims for wins in AFCON qualifiers with Eagles

Ademola Lookman says the Super Eagles are ready to kick off their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. They aim to win against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau, even though these matches will be tough, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

“The whole team is looking forward to it. Two very important games are approaching, and the opponents are, of course, difficult to face. But we are looking forward to winning these two games,” Lookman told AS.

“We know that the games will be difficult, but we will do everything possible to achieve it.”

Nigeria will start their qualifying journey against Madagascar on September 25. They will then play Guinea-Bissau four days later. Lookman emphasized that the Super Eagles need to approach both games with the right mindset.

Importance of a Strong Start

The three-time African champions want to start strong after the disappointment of missing the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Nigeria lost to DR Congo in the CAF playoff final, which dashed their hopes of reaching the tournament next year. This makes it even more important to have a good start in the AFCON qualifiers.

The Super Eagles have not missed the AFCON since 2017. They have made it to at least the semi-finals in each of the last four tournaments. Nigeria finished third in 2019 and 2025, were runners-up in 2023, and reached the Round of 16 in 2021.

At the 2025 edition in Morocco, the Super Eagles went through the tournament without a loss in normal or extra time. They were eliminated in the semi-final by the hosts on penalties, but they later secured the bronze medal by beating Egypt in the third-place match.

Lookman has made it into Eric Chelle’s squad for the opening qualifiers. He is expected to play an important role as Nigeria looks to return to the continental competition.

Before joining the Super Eagles for the international break, the Atletico Madrid forward will first play against Real Madrid in the Madrid derby on Sunday. Lookman has scored once in seven appearances for Atletico this season and hopes to bring his club form to Nigeria’s opening AFCON qualifiers.