Ademola Lookman Reflects on Switching Allegiance to Nigeria
Prince Jean
Dec 10, 2024
Ademola Lookman addresses the media during a Champions League press conference. Credit:gettyimages
Ademola Lookman says choosing to play for Nigeria has been a great decision for him, according to DAILY POST.
Lookman, born in Wandsworth, Greater London to Nigerian parents, played for England’s youth teams. He even helped the young Three Lions win the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017.
But in February 2022, Lookman decided to switch his loyalty to Nigeria. His debut for the Super Eagles came in a World Cup qualifier against Ghana a month later.
In 2023, Lookman played for Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Côte d’Ivoire. The former Leicester City star made a strong impact, scoring three goals and delivering one assist in seven matches. His performance earned him a spot in the Team of the Tournament.
Lookman called playing for Nigeria a life-changing experience.
“It was massive for me because that was really a big turning point in my career. Ever since I’ve put on the Super Eagles jersey, it has been fruitful,”
he told Sporty TV.
He added, “We have achieved a lot as a team and are still growing. The bond within the team is very special. At the last AFCON, we reached the final but fell just short.”