Super Eagles Elite Top Scorers at AFCON 2025
The Nigerian football community is celebrating a new icon as Ademola Lookman officially etched his name into the history books of the Super Eagles. On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, following a masterclass performance in Nigeria’s 4-0 demolition of Mozambique at the AFCON 2025 (hosted in early 2026), Lookman joined an elite list of the country’s most prolific goalscorers in Africa Cup of Nations history.
The Atalanta talisman, who has been in sensational form for both club and country, showcased why he is a frontrunner for the African Player of the Year. His ability to find the net at crucial moments has propelled him into a prestigious circle that includes legends like Rashidi Yekini, Jay-Jay Okocha, and Odion Ighalo. As the Super Eagles advance further into the tournament, Lookman’s rising goal tally is not just a personal milestone but a beacon of hope for a nation hungry for its fourth continental title.
The Rise of a Legend: Lookman’s Goal-Scoring Prowess
Ademola Lookman’s transition from a talented winger to a lethal goal-scoring machine has been the highlight of the Super Eagles’ campaign. His positioning, pace, and clinical finishing have made him the focal point of Nigeria’s attack alongside Victor Osimhen.
- Consistency in AFCON: Unlike many players who struggle with the physicality of African football, Lookman has adapted seamlessly, scoring in consecutive matches to lead Nigeria’s charge.
- Tactical Flexibility: Under the current tactical setup, Lookman operates with a freedom that allows him to exploit spaces behind defenders, a trait that was evident in the 4-0 victory over Mozambique.
- Elite Company: By surpassing previous legends in terms of goals scored within a single tournament cycle, he is now being compared to the greatest finishers the nation has ever produced.
Comparing the Greats: Super Eagles AFCON Goal Records
To understand the magnitude of Lookman’s achievement, we have compared his current performance with some of the all-time greats who have worn the green and white at the Africa Cup of Nations.
| Player Name | AFCON Goals | Notable Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Rashidi Yekini | 13 | Nigeria’s All-Time Highest AFCON Scorer. |
| Jay-Jay Okocha | 7 | 2004 AFCON Golden Boot and MVP winner. |
| Ademola Lookman | 6 | Joint-3rd all-time; current AFCON 2025 favorite. |
| Segun Odegbami | 6 | Star of Nigeria’s 1980 title-winning squad. |
| Julius Aghahowa | 6 | Joint-top scorer at the 2002 edition. |
| Odion Ighalo | 5 | 2019 AFCON Golden Boot Winner. |
The Mozambique Masterclass: How the Record was Set
The match against Mozambique served as the perfect stage for Lookman to solidify his status. Nigeria dominated from the first whistle, but it was Lookman’s individual brilliance that broke the morale of the opposition.
- The Opening Strike: Lookman’s first goal of the game demonstrated his predatory instincts, reacting fastest to a rebound in the six-yard box.
- Playmaking Brilliance: Beyond his goals, his assist for the third goal proved that he is a complete team player, prioritizing the win over individual glory.
- Fan Adulation: The stadium in Morocco (AFCON host) erupted every time the “Lookman” name was announced, showing his growing popularity among continental fans.
Golden Boot Aspirations: Can Lookman Win it All?
With the Super Eagles now safely in the knockout stages, the conversation has shifted toward the AFCON 2025 Golden Boot. Lookman is currently neck-and-neck with the continent’s best strikers.
- Internal Competition: The healthy rivalry between Lookman and teammate Victor Osimhen is driving the team forward, as both players look to outscore each other while securing the trophy.
- Remaining Fixtures: Depending on Nigeria’s path to the final, Lookman could potentially shatter the long-standing record of 5 goals in a single tournament for a Nigerian player.
Conclusion: A New Era for the Super Eagles
Ademola Lookman’s entry into the elite circle of Nigerian top scorers is a testament to his hard work and the renewed spirit of the Super Eagles. As 2026 unfolds, Lookman isn’t just playing for records; he is playing for a legacy that will inspire millions of young Nigerian footballers. For the readers of 9jasonic.com, this is a historic moment to witness a player at the peak of his powers, rewriting the narrative of Nigerian excellence on the African stage.
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