AFCON 2027 Qualifiers: Super Eagles Suffer Major Blow as Lookman Is Ruled Out of Tanzania Return Leg

Nigeria’s Super Eagles have been dealt a major blow ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying return fixture against Tanzania, with Ademola Lookman ruled out due to a knee injury.

According to a report by Premium Times on Saturday, November 14, 2026, the Atletico Madrid forward will miss Tuesday’s encounter in Zanzibar after suffering a knee ligament sprain during Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo on Friday.

The extent of the injury was established following a medical scan. Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe confirmed that the examination revealed a ligament sprain in Lookman’s knee, ruling him out of the upcoming fixture.

His absence will be a considerable setback for head coach Eric Chelle, given the forward’s importance to Nigeria’s attacking play. Lookman made a valuable contribution in the first meeting, setting up Alhassan Yusuf for the opening goal before being forced off with the injury.

The development is particularly disappointing for the Super Eagles, who had hoped to build on their convincing victory. Tolu Arokodare scored twice as Nigeria secured all three points with a 3-1 win over the Taifa Stars.

Chelle must now consider alternative attacking options for the return leg, as Lookman’s creativity, movement and ability to unlock opposition defences will be missing from the team.

Despite their advantage from the first encounter, Nigeria will need another strong performance in Zanzibar to maintain their progress in the qualification campaign.

The Super Eagles will be counting on their remaining attacking players to step up and help secure a positive result without the injured Atletico Madrid star.