Lookman reveals Super Eagles’ target against Madagascar & Guinea-Bissau

Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman has set a clear objective for the Super Eagles ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau later this month, Soccernet.ng reports.

The three-time African champions will begin their campaign to qualify for the next edition of Africa’s biggest football tournament when they face Madagascar on September 25, before taking on Guinea-Bissau four days later.

The Super Eagles enjoyed a strong campaign at the 2025 AFCON in Morocco, going through the tournament without losing a game in normal time. Their only defeat came in the semi-final when they lost to hosts Morocco on penalties. 

Nigeria eventually finished with a bronze medal, securing their ninth third-place finish in the history of the competition.

However, the Super Eagles suffered a major setback in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Nigeria failed to qualify from their group after they were beaten by DR Congo in the CAF playoff final and will now be keen to avoid another major disappointment when they begin their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.

Super Eagles: Lookman explains what Nigeria must do in AFCON 2027 qualifiers

The last time Nigeria failed to qualify for the AFCON was in 2017. Since then, the Super Eagles have reached the last four at each of the last four editions, finishing third twice, runners-up once and reaching the Round of 16 once.

Lookman has now stressed the importance of approaching the upcoming qualifiers with the right mentality and also to avoid underestimating their opponents.

“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”, the Super Eagles forward revealed in an interview.

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

Lookman has been called up by head coach Eric Chelle for both matches and will be hoping to play a key role as Nigeria look to make a strong start to their qualifying campaign.

Before joining up with the Super Eagles, the 28-year-old will be in action for Atletico Madrid in the Spanish giants’ derby clash against Real Madrid on Sunday.