Ademola Lookman will return to the Super Eagles starting XI for today’s 2026 World Cup Playoffs clash against Gabon with Samuel Chukwueze and Jerome Akor also in contention to see action from the first whistle.
Atalanta star Ademola Lookman, who is highly rated by coach Eric Chelle, was suspended for the Super Eagles final World Cup qualifier against Benin in Uyo last month after he picked up his second booking in the series against South Africa in September.
The enterprising forward has regained some of his sharpness in front of goal after his long-drawn transfer saga of the summer and he proved this when he scored his first goal of the season against AC Milan recently.
In the 4-4-2 formation favoured by coach Eric Chelle, he will again play behind Victor Osimhen.
Chukwueze produced a masterclass performance in the first half against Benin to deliver two assists to Osimhen.
However, a calf injury stopped him from the second half.
Sevilla striker Jerome Akor will be another player pushing to start today after his well-taken goal against Lesotho last month on his full international debut.
