Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen has disclosed the reason behind Ademola Lookman’s latest individual accolade.
The Atalanta winger was recently named the CAF African Men’s Best Player for 2024, following a remarkable year highlighted by his historic hat-trick in the Europa League final, which helped La Dea secure their first continental trophy.
Lookman’s standout performances in 2024 also included his contributions to the Super Eagles during the 2023 AFCON tournament, where the 27-year-old attacker scored three goals and provided an assist to help José Peseiro’s team reach the final.
Changes at the helm eventually saw Eguavoen take over as interim coach following the resignation of Finidi George, whose stint with the team was brief.
Despite these adjustments, Lookman maintained his impressive form at the national level, netting two goals to secure Nigeria’s qualification for the 2025 AFCON tournament, set to be held in Morocco.
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Eguavoen on why Lookman won the CAF POTY
Eguavoen, who has witnessed Lookman’s abilities firsthand, attributed the African Best Player award to the forward’s selflessness and growth on the pitch.
“You could see a maturity in his game. He didn’t just play for himself—he played for the team, and that’s what made him stand out,” said the Super Eagles gaffer, as reported by Afrikaanspective.
Meanwhile, Lookman has carried his stellar form into the 2024-25 season for Atalanta, recording 11 goals and five assists, including 12 goal contributions in the league, as La Dea sit atop the Serie A table.
