Former African POTY explains why Lookman struggled in Nigeria's win v Gabon, calls out Chukwueze

Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba, has shared his thoughts on Ademola Lookman's underwhelming display in Nigeria's emphatic 4-1 victory over Gabon on Thursday evening, and also challenged Samuel Chukwueze to step up his game for the Super Eagles.

Both wingers were deployed out of position by manager Eric Chelle, who opted for a 4-4-2 formation that saw Lookman and Chukwueze operate as wide midfielders rather than their more familiar attacking roles. 

The tactical tweak failed to pay off as the pair struggled to influence proceedings and were both withdrawn around the hour mark, with Chukwueze making way for Chidera Ejuke, while Moses Simon replaced Lookman.

Ikpeba expressed concern over Lookman's current form, noting that the forward is still working his way back to sharpness, after missing the start of the season due to the problems he had at Atalanta following a failed move to Inter Milan. 

"I will like to see more from Lookman, we have not seen the Lookman of old," Ikpeba said on SuperSport's halftime analysis monitored by allnigeriasoccer.com.

"We can understand, he's short of match fitness and that form is not there yet. Recently he scored (for Atalanta).

"The likes of Chukwueze and Lookman, we need to see more from these two players."

Nigeria secured their place in the African final of the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoff, but not without drama.

Akor Adams put the Super Eagles ahead after pouncing on a defensive mix-up, rounding the Gabon goalkeeper and slotting into an empty net in the 78th minute.

Mario Lemina levelled the score with a deflected effort a minute before full time, forcing the match into extra time.

Chidera Ejuke restored the Super Eagles' lead early in the 97th minute before Victor Osimhen, who had earlier missed a gilt-edged chance, redeemed himself with a brace to seal a thrilling victory. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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