Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle will have something to cheer about ahead of next month’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, as Ademola Lookman marked his return from injury with a goal on Tuesday.
The African Player of the Year, who had been sidelined with a knee injury since last month, found the net in Atalanta’s 3-1 defeat to Club Brugge. Lookman, showing no signs of rustiness, scored just a minute after coming on as a half-time substitute.
Despite Atalanta’s loss, his return is a major boost for Chelle, who has been closely monitoring the fitness of his key players. The 26-year-old forward is expected to play a crucial role in Nigeria’s attack, especially with the Super Eagles needing to win all their remaining qualifiers.
Chelle, who was appointed last month, faces a tough task in reviving Nigeria’s World Cup hopes. It will be his first game in charge of the Super Eagles, who currently sit fifth in their group with just three points from four matches—three points behind Rwanda, South Africa, and Benin Republic. Anything short of victory against Rwanda and Zimbabwe could severely dent their chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
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Lookman’s return to form, along with the expected availability of Victor Osimhen, could provide the much-needed firepower. Osimhen, who is also back from injury, recently scored for Galatasaray, while Wilfred Ndidi made his first appearance of the year for Leicester City in their FA Cup loss to Manchester United.
Nigeria travel to Kigali to play Rwanda on March 17, before hosting Zimbabwe seven days later at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
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