Lookman Ruled Out of Super Eagles’ AFCON 2027 Qualifier Against Tanzania

Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman will miss Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Tanzania on Tuesday after suffering a knee ligament sprain.

A scan carried out on Saturday confirmed the injury, which Lookman sustained during Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo on Friday.

The Atlético Madrid winger was forced off towards the end of the first half and was replaced by Moses Simon.

Before leaving the pitch, Lookman provided the assist for Alhassan Yusuf’s opening goal, scored less than two minutes into the match.

Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed the injury in a statement on Saturday.

“Scan has revealed Ademola Lookman suffered a sprain in his knee ligament during yesterday’s match,” the statement read.

Lookman is expected to return to his club, Atlético Madrid, for further medical assessment and treatment.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Super Eagles squad will travel to Zanzibar on Sunday ahead of Tuesday’s return fixture against Tanzania.

The injury is a setback for head coach Eric Chelle, who will now have to find a replacement for one of his key attacking players.

Moses Simon could be an option to fill the gap on the left wing, while other attacking options include Akor Adams and Tolu Arokodare.

Nigeria will be hoping to secure another positive result in Zanzibar as the battle for qualification from Group L continues.