Nigeria secured their place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals with a 2-0 victory over Cameroon, thanks to Ademola Lookman’s stellar performance.
The former Everton, Fulham, and Leicester midfielder scored twice, once in each half, to propel The Super Eagles into the last eight.
Early in the match, Cameroon survived a scare when Semi Ajayi’s goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR review. In the 36th minute, Lookman capitalized on a pass from Victor Osimhen, finding the net as his shot slipped past goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa. Despite Osimhen’s dynamic play, Nigeria missed further chances, with Lookman’s free-kick narrowly sailing over the bar.
Unfortunately, the night was slightly marred for Nigeria as goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili suffered an injury, prompting his substitution in the 75th minute. Vincent Aboubakar, the Golden Boot winner of the 2021 edition, made his first appearance in the tournament for Cameroon but failed to make an impact.
Lookman sealed the victory with a well-placed finish from Calvin Bassey’s cross in stoppage time. With this triumph, Nigeria eagerly anticipates their upcoming clash with Angola in the quarterfinals, keeping their AFCON glory aspirations alive.
