Follow @iambolar on X for more expert analysis.
Crowned African Footballer of the Year in December 2024 after a sensational season with Atalanta, Ademola Lookman enters the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as one of the continent’s most electrifying talents. His journey from the English Premier League prospect to continental icon is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and raw brilliance.
“Just over four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward four years, I’m the best player in Africa.”
This powerful statement refers to his infamous missed Panenka penalty for Fulham in 2020, which drew widespread criticism. But Lookman used that moment as fuel, saying: “Don’t let your failures weigh you down that they break your wings. Matter of fact, turn your pain into your power and continue to fight.”
Key Attributes
Explosive Acceleration & Dribbling: Lookman’s ability to beat defenders 1v1 is outstanding. His quick feet and low center of gravity make him a nightmare for fullbacks.
Two-Footed Finishing: With 13 goals from his right foot and five from his left last season, he’s unpredictable in front of goal.
Versatility: Capable of playing as a winger, second striker, or attacking midfielder. He adapts seamlessly to different systems and teams.
Game Winner: His hat-trick in the 2024 Europa League Final and decisive goals in AFCON qualifiers prove he delivers when it matters most.
Total Season Numbers: Atalanta and Nigeria
| Team | Competition | Matches | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
| Atalanta | Serie A | 31 | 15 | 5 | 2,264 |
| UEFA Champions League | 7 | 5 | 1 | 481 | |
| Others | 2 | 0 | 0 | 188 | |
| Club Total | 40 | 20 | 7 | 2,933 | |
| Nigeria | AFCON 2024 | 7 | 4 | 0 | 630 |
| AFCON Qualifiers | 4 | 2 | 0 | 360 | |
| Friendlies & WCQ | 5 | 0 | 1 | 419 | |
| Country Total | 16 | 6 | 1 | 1,409 | |
| Season Total | 56 | 26 | 8 | 4,342 |
- Goals per 90 mins (All competitions): 0.56
- Shot Accuracy: 54% (27/50 shots on target in Serie A)
- Goal Conversion Rate: 24% (1 goal every 4.17 shots)
- Expected Goals (xG): 11.68
- Shot Accuracy: 54%
- Successful Dribbles per Game: 1.56
- Key Passes per Game (Serie A): 2.58
Imperfections Still in Play
Ball Retention Under Pressure: Averages 14.5 possession losses per game.
Penalty Reliability: Missed a key Champions League penalty, drawing criticism from his coach and fans.
Defensive Work Rate: Still developing his off-ball contributions in pressing systems.
International Impact & AFCON 2025 Outlook
?? ????? ?????? ?? ???? ???? ????? ?? ??? ???? ??
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) July 22, 2025
Are you ready to go 1Up?! ?
Since switching allegiance from England in 2022, Lookman has scored eight goals in 29 appearances for Nigeria. His performances at the 2023 AFCON, where he scored three knockout stage goals, cemented his status as a national hero.
He’s publicly stated that “our goal is to qualify for AFCON and the World Cup”, emphasising his commitment to the national team’s ambitions.
Now, as the reigning African Footballer of the Year, he carries the hopes of a nation. Nigeria, led by a dynamic attacking core, are among the favourites in Morocco. Lookman’s leadership and form could be the difference between promise and silverware.
With Inter Milan reportedly close to sealing a €45 million deal for his signature, his club future may soon shift. But his focus remains clear: guide Nigeria to AFCON glory and continue his ascent among Africa’s elite.
If his current trajectory holds, Lookman could be the face of Nigeria’s next golden generation. From London streets to continental stardom, Lookman’s story is far from finished. If 2024 was his breakout, 2025 could be his coronation.
