Lookman sets AFCON qualifiers target for Eagles

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Ademola Lookman says the Super Eagles are determined to begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign with victories over Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau despite expecting difficult encounters, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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“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.

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

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Nigeria will open their qualifying campaign against Madagascar on September 25 before facing Guinea-Bissau four days later, with Lookman stressing the need for the Super Eagles to approach both fixtures with the right mentality.

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The three-time African champions will be looking to make a strong start after the disappointment of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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Nigeria were beaten by DR Congo in the CAF playoff final, ending their hopes of reaching next year’s tournament and increasing the importance of making a positive start to their AFCON qualifying campaign.

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The Super Eagles have not missed the AFCON since 2017 and have reached at least the semi-finals at each of the last four editions.

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Nigeria finished third in 2019 and 2025, were runners-up in 2023 and reached the Round of 16 in 2021.

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At the 2025 edition in Morocco, the Super Eagles went through the tournament without losing in normal or extra time before being eliminated by the hosts on penalties in the semi-final. They subsequently secured the bronze medal by beating Egypt in the third-place play-off.

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Lookman has been included in Eric Chelle’s squad for the opening qualifiers and will be expected to play a key role as Nigeria begin their bid to return to the continental showpiece.

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The Atletico Madrid forward will first face Real Madrid in Sunday’s Madrid derby before linking up with the Super Eagles for the international break.

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Lookman has scored once in seven appearances for Atletico this season and will be hoping to carry his club form into Nigeria’s opening AFCON qualifiers.

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