Ademola Lookman has revealed that the Super Eagles went into the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with one clear ambition — to lift the trophy. While that ultimate goal slipped away, the Nigerian forward says the team has come to terms with their bronze-medal finish, describing it as “enough” after an intense and emotional campaign in Morocco.

Nigeria secured third place on Saturday night after edging Egypt 4–2 on penalties following a goalless 90 minutes. Lookman once again proved his composure on the big stage, calmly converting the final penalty to seal victory for the Super Eagles.

Before their semi-final heartbreak, Nigeria had enjoyed a flawless run, winning all five of their matches and standing as the only unbeaten side at the tournament. That impressive streak came to an end against host nation Morocco, who knocked the Super Eagles out in a tense penalty shootout, denying them a place in the final.

Reflecting on the journey, Lookman admitted that the disappointment of missing out on gold still lingers, but he also emphasized the importance of appreciating what the team achieved.

“Everyone wanted to win the gold medal. We came for the trophy, but it didn’t happen,” Lookman told beIN SPORTS.
“We leave the tournament with the bronze medal, and that is enough.”

The Atalanta star was one of the standout performers at AFCON 2025, finishing the tournament with three goals and four assists — the best combined attacking output by any player in Morocco. His contributions place him firmly in contention for a spot in the official Team of the Tournament.

Nigeria’s third-place finish marks the ninth time the Super Eagles have claimed bronze at the AFCON, adding to previous podium appearances in 1976, 1978, 1992, 2002, 2004, 2006, 2010 and 2019 — a testament to the nation’s long-standing competitiveness on the continental stage.

However, not everyone in the camp is convinced about the relevance of a third-place playoff. Midfielder Alex Iwobi has openly criticised the format, arguing that AFCON should adopt a winner-takes-all approach similar to tournaments in Europe and the Americas.

Opinion: Bronze Today, Belief for Tomorrow

Lookman’s words strike a balanced tone between ambition and acceptance. While the Super Eagles fell short of their ultimate target, their performances throughout AFCON 2025 showed growth, resilience, and a renewed attacking edge. Finishing third may not satisfy a squad that tasted dominance early in the tournament, but it offers something just as valuable — belief.

With players like Lookman leading by example and delivering when it matters most, Nigeria can look beyond the bronze medal with optimism. This AFCON may not have ended in gold, but it laid a strong foundation for future triumphs — and sometimes, that is more than enough.