What Lookman had to say before Super Eagles do-or-die battle against bogey team Rwanda

Ademola Lookman has expressed confidence in the Super Eagles' ability to secure victory against Rwanda, revealing the winning formula within the team ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers encounter against the Wasps on Friday at the Amahoro Stadium. 

Rwanda can rightly be regarded as Nigeria's bogey team, with the Super Eagles managing just one win in their last five encounters — a victory that came thirteen years ago.

Currently sitting in fifth place in Group C of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers with three points, Nigeria is in dire need of a win to revive hopes of securing qualification for the tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking to Nigerian reporters in Kigali ahead of the match, Lookman expressed optimism about the team's preparation and mindset.

"The team is looking forward to Friday's game, the first game. The team is looking to God, work hard, and impose ourselves on the game," Lookman said.

"Rwanda is a good team. We know about their quality and at the end of the day we need to be focused on ourselves, try to bring the game to them and fight to get the win, and that's the most important thing for us."

Highlighting the team's cohesion, Lookman emphasized the strength of the squad and their shared commitment to success.

"Everybody knows the level of players that we have here is an incredible group of players. Most importantly, everybody is a good person, everybody has the same objective to try to win and want to win. 

"You know that's very important, the group is getting together and that's the winning formula.

"Everybody is positive, we have had two good training sessions. As a team, we are looking towards Friday's game and putting on a great performance."

On receiving the African Best Award, Lookman described the honor as a significant milestone in his career.

"It is a blessing, it is a pleasure and honour. It is something that I hold with great honour and respect."

Lookman has been in outstanding form this season, scoring 18 goals and providing 7 assists in 32 matches across all competitions for Atalanta. 

Nigeria's head coach, Eric Chelle, will be hoping the forward maintains his form to help the Super Eagles secure a much-needed victory against Rwanda.

Adeyemi Adewale

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