Explained: Why Ademola Lookman’s goal was disallowed during Rwanda vs Nigeria

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If there had been VAR for the Rwanda vs. Nigeria game, the Super Eagles would have won. Ademola Lookman's goal would have been awarded after a VAR review. At first glance, it looked like a foul, which is why Egyptian referee Mohamed Maarouf Eid Mansour disallowed the goal. It was a human error, as he had to make a decision in a split second. VAR would have resolved this.

Nigeria’s Super Eagles were left questioning the officiating during their goalless draw against Rwanda in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier, after a 23rd-minute goal by Ademola Lookman was controversially disallowed.

The decision, made by Egyptian referee Mohamed Maarouf Eid Mansour, left Nigeria frustrated as they failed to secure a win despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances.

Lookman’s disallowed goal came during a long throw-in for the Super Eagles. After a precise attempt from Ola Aina, Lookman headed the ball into the net, sparking celebrations among the Nigerian players. However, the referee quickly ruled out the goal, citing a foul in the buildup by Nigerian defender Ajayi. This decision sparked confusion, as replays showed minimal contact between Ajayi and the Rwandan player.

SportsRation correspondent Nsikakabasi Akpan explains that referee Mansour believed Ajayi had fouled an opponent during the lead-up to the goal. If Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology had been available at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, the goal would likely have stood.

A VAR review could have offered the referee a closer look at the incident and possibly overturned the decision. This situation reignites the debate over the need for modern officiating equipment at all levels of international football to prevent errors caused by split-second decisions.

“It looked like a foul at first glance, but on closer inspection, it wasn’t. VAR would have changed the game’s outcome,” Akpan commented.

Despite Nigeria’s best efforts, the inspired performance of Rwandan goalkeeper Fiacre Ntwari thwarted their attempts to break the deadlock. Ntwari made several outstanding saves to deny Lookman, Victor Boniface, and substitute Victor Osimhen, leaving Nigeria frustrated.

The draw means Nigeria maintains their position as group leaders, but the match will be remembered for the controversy surrounding Lookman’s disallowed goal. With no VAR in place, fans and analysts continue to question whether officiating errors may have cost the Super Eagles a vital victory.

Nigeria will now shift focus to their next AFCON qualifier against Libya, determined to return to winning ways.