Ademola Lookman Reveals the Toughest Match at 2023 AFCON: Heat and Humidity Made It a Challenge

Ademola Lookman, a forward for the Super Eagles, talked about the hardest game he played during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Coach Jose Peseiro used Lookman primarily on the left wing throughout the tournament in Ivory Coast, and he started in six out of the seven matches. During the event, Lookman scored three goals and was recognized as one of the standout players by being named to the Team of the Tournament.

Nigeria’s journey at AFCON included a nail-biting semifinal win against South Africa’s Bafana Bafana, which they secured through a penalty shootout. However, in the final against the host nation, Ivory Coast, they were defeated 2-1 by the Elephants.

In a conversation with Calister Enejele, Lookman mentioned that their opening match against Equatorial Guinea was the most difficult game for him. He explained, “‘Probably Equatorial Guinea because we played at 2 pm. The heat and humidity made it really tough for us. So, I’d say that game was the most challenging.”