SNOW TV NEWS DESK
Nigeria’s preparations for Tuesday’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying encounter against Tanzania have suffered a setback, with Ademola Lookman ruled out after sustaining a knee ligament injury.
The Atlético Madrid winger picked up the injury during Nigeria’s matchday three meeting with the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday night. Lookman was unable to continue and was replaced by Moses Simon late in the first half.
A medical scan conducted after the game confirmed a sprain to his knee ligament, effectively ruling him out of the return fixture scheduled to take place in Zanzibar on Tuesday.
Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed the development in a statement on Saturday, adding that the 29-year-old would return to his club for further treatment.
“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,” Efoghe stated.
Lookman’s absence represents a significant blow to Nigeria, particularly given his attacking influence and ability to create opportunities in tight games. His pace, movement, and direct approach have made him an important part of the Super Eagles’ attacking setup.
His injury also presents an opportunity for Moses Simon and other attacking options to step up as Nigeria prepares for a potentially challenging away fixture. The coaching staff will now have to consider how best to reorganize the attack without one of their most influential players.
Beyond Tuesday’s encounter, Lookman’s recovery will also be closely monitored by Atlético Madrid, who will want to establish the extent of the injury before determining his return-to-action timeline.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to travel to Zanzibar on Sunday ahead of the return leg. With qualification points at stake, Nigeria will be hoping to overcome Lookman’s absence and maintain their momentum in the race for a place at the 2027 AFCON.
For now, the priority will be securing a positive result against Tanzania while ensuring the injured winger receives the necessary treatment to avoid a prolonged spell on the sidelines.
“Sir Bartholomew White Ebe is a Lagos-based media personality, Music Artist, Producer, and a Relationship Coach and independent journalist. With over seven years of experience tracking political developments and cultural shifts in Nigeria, he specializes in local current affairs, grassroots politics, and community-driven reporting across Lagos State. As the founder and chief editor of Snow Multimedia Connect {SNOW TV}, he leads the editorial team to deliver verified, high-impact stories to digital audiences.”
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