Ikpeba Calls for Improvement as Lookman Struggles in Super Eagles’ 4–1 Win Over Gabon
Former Super Eagles forward Victor Ikpeba has offered a candid assessment of Ademola Lookman’s form following Nigeria’s 4–1 victory over Gabon in Thursday’s 2026 World Cup playoff clash in Rabat.
Lookman, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, failed to impress despite Nigeria’s emphatic win. The winger, who started in a 4-4-2 formation alongside Samuel Chukwueze, was substituted around the 60th minute after struggling to make a meaningful impact on the game.
Chukwueze was replaced by Chidera Ejuke, while Moses Simon came on for Lookman.
Speaking on SuperSport, Ikpeba said Lookman’s dip is understandable, considering he missed the early part of the season due to transfer complications.
“I would like to see more from Lookman. We have not seen the Lookman of old,” Ikpeba said.
“We can understand — he’s short of match fitness and that form is not there yet. The likes of Chukwueze and Lookman, we need to see more from these two players.”
Despite the slow start in attack, Nigeria eventually overpowered the Panthers. After a tense 1–1 draw in regulation time — with Mario Lemina cancelling out Adams Akor’s early opener — the Super Eagles exploded in extra time.
A brilliant brace from Victor Osimhen and a composed finish from Ejuke sealed a dominant 4–1 win.
The victory sets up a decisive showdown against DR Congo in Sunday’s playoff final, with a coveted World Cup ticket on the line.
Opinion: Lookman’s Dip Isn’t Alarming — But Nigeria Needs Him Back at His Best
Ademola Lookman’s quiet performance has naturally raised eyebrows, especially given the expectations that come with being Africa’s reigning best player. But truthfully, this is not a time for panic — it is a time for patience.
Lookman’s game thrives on rhythm, sharpness, and confidence. Missing preseason and the early part of the club campaign due to transfer issues was always going to disrupt that rhythm. Nigeria saw a glimpse of this during AFCON qualifiers: when he’s in form, he is unstoppable — but when match fitness drops, his explosiveness fades.
However, the bigger concern isn’t Lookman alone.
Nigeria’s wingers as a whole have not been firing consistently, and with a World Cup ticket at stake, the Super Eagles can’t afford passengers.
The good news?
Even with key attackers off-form, Nigeria still found a way to dismantle Gabon — and that speaks volumes about the depth and mentality under coach Eric Chelle.
Lookman will bounce back. His quality is unquestionable. But the clock is ticking, and Nigeria will need a sharper, more confident version of him against DR Congo — a team that will not be as forgiving as Gabon.
