Ademola Lookman Ignores South Africa, Ivory Coast As He Discloses Toughest AFCON 2023 Opponents

• A Nigerian player revealed the toughest match at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations
• The Super Eagles defeated Cameroon, Angola, and South Africa to reach the final
• Nigeria finished as runners-up under Jose Peseiro, losing 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast

Super Eagles star, Ademola Lookman, shared his experience at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast while disclosing his toughest opponents.

The Atalanta forward was part of the Nigerian national team squad that finished second in February in the 34th edition of the number one African football competition.

Portuguese manager Jose Peseiro led the Super Eagles to the final of the tournament but lost to the host Ivory Coast, 2-1.

According to a report by Soccernet, Lookman was one of the best players in the competition, scoring three goals and providing one assist.

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Despite facing Cameroon, Ivory Coast, Angola, and South Africa in the tournament, the former Everton forward claimed the toughest game for him in the competition was the opener against Equatorial Guinea.

"It was probably Equatorial Guinea because we played at 2 p.m.; the heat and humidity were tough for us. You probably have to say that game," Lookman said in an interview with Calister Enejele.

The former RB Leipzig star spoke about the opportunity to help the team with his goal contribution in the tournament.

"I was thrilled, obviously; being an attacking player, you always want to help the team in that way. So yeah, I was very glad. But the team was amazing, and everybody helped out," he added.

Lookman hopes to continue contributing to Nigeria's success when they face South Africa and the Benin Republic in their next FIFA World Cup qualifying games.

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Finidi nominates foreign coaches as assistants

Sports Brief earlier reported that the new coach of the Nigerian team, Finidi George, has nominated three foreign candidates for assistant roles within the Super Eagles.

The 53-year-old has recently compiled a shortlist of coaches whom he would be keen to collaborate with.

Finidi's list reportedly also includes Daniel Amokachi, as a second assistant coach, and Abiodun Baruwa, as the goalkeeper trainer.