Get Guardian on GoogleAdemola Lookman will not be available for selection as the Super Eagles take on Tanzania in the second leg of the 2027 Africa of Nations matchday four fixture in Zanzibar on Tuesday afternoon.
The Atletico Madrid forward featured for about half an hour in the first leg and provided an assist for Alhassan Yusuf’s opener in the second minute of play. However, Lookman came off injured before the end of the first half.
In a latest development, the Super Eagles media officer, Promise Efoghe, told reporters that the 29-year-old forward has suffered a sprain in his knee ligament and has been ruled out of the second leg against the Taifa Stars.
“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, the statement read.
Ademola Lookman’s absence means Eric Chelle has to start Friday’s hero, Tolu Arokodare, or Taiwo Awoniyi alongside Akor Adams upfront as the Super Eagles look to complete the double over Tanzania.
Arokodare’s double secured a 3-1 win for the Super Eagles at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Friday evening, reviving the dream to reach next year’s Africa Cup of Nations.
The Ajax Amsterdam strike came off the bench in the second half and scored twice within eight minutes. The 25-year-old scored the first with a beautiful flick in the 52nd minute from Ndidi’s square pass.
Arokodare added the third with a calm and composed finish on the hour mark as he beautifully controlled Moses Usor’s pass in the box before burying a low drive between the goalkeeper’s legs.
The victory gives the Super Eagles hope as they continue their chase for the sole ticket in Group L.
Tanzania will take on the Super Eagles at the Amaan Stadium, Zanzibar, on Tuesday afternoon, with kick-off set for 2 p.m. Nigerian time. @Oluyemi Ogunseyin
