Knee Blow! Ademola Lookman Ruled Out of Super Eagles’ Tanzania Second Leg

Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman has been ruled out of Nigeria’s crucial 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier second leg against Tanzania after scans confirmed a knee ligament sprain.

The Atlético Madrid forward sustained the injury during Nigeria’s 3-1 first-leg victory over the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday.

Lookman started the match and played a key role early, providing the assist for Alhassan Yusuf’s second-minute opener.

He later went down late in the first half after feeling discomfort while attempting a left-footed shot and taking a knock to the same knee. He was substituted in the 44th minute (or first-half stoppage time) by Moses Simon and did not return.

Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed the diagnosis on Saturday: “Scan has revealed Ademola Lookman suffered a sprain in his knee ligament during yesterday’s match. This rules him out of Nigeria’s next AFCON qualifier versus Tanzania in Zanzibar on Tuesday.”

Lookman is expected to return to his Spanish club for further assessment and treatment.

Head coach Eric Chelle had initially downplayed the issue after the match, describing it as “a little problem.” He explained that Lookman felt his knee start to bother him during the shot attempt before taking another knock, prompting the early withdrawal.

The subsequent medical scans left no doubt about his unavailability for the return fixture in Zanzibar.

The absence is a significant setback for Chelle and the Super Eagles as they prepare to travel for the Matchday Four encounter. Nigeria currently sit on six points from three Group L games, one behind leaders Guinea-Bissau. Lookman’s creativity, pace, and attacking threat will be missed, especially with the team already managing other absences in the squad.

Positive news emerged elsewhere: defenders Calvin Bassey and Benjamin Fredrick, who suffered cramps in the first leg, were reported to have recovered. In attack, options remain strong.

Substitute Tolu Arokodare scored twice after coming on in Uyo to seal the win, while Akor Adams and Moses Simon provide ready alternatives. Chelle will likely reshape his forward line around these players for the Zanzibar clash.

Lookman’s injury adds pressure on the Super Eagles to maintain their strong showing and push for a top spot in the group. Fans and the coaching staff will hope for a swift recovery so the talented forward can return to action for both club and country soon.

The second leg is scheduled for Tuesday in Zanzibar, with Nigeria aiming to build on their first-leg advantage.