Ademola Lookman was forced off injured before half-time as Nigeria beat Tanzania in the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, leaving Atletico Madrid waiting anxiously for news on the forward’s condition.
Lookman appeared to suffer a sudden muscle problem during the match and was replaced by Moses Simon before the interval. No official diagnosis has yet been issued, while the precise location and severity of the injury remain unclear.
Medical examinations will determine how long the 27-year-old could be unavailable and whether he can feature when Nigeria face Tanzania again on Tuesday in Zanzibar. His recovery will also decide when he can return to Atletico Madrid.
Lookman had made an excellent start to the match and appeared determined to use the international break to rebuild his confidence after a difficult spell at club level. He played a key role in Nigeria’s opening goal, providing the assist for Alhassan Yusuf after an attack initiated by Akor Adams.
However, his promising performance was cut short only minutes later, with his departure forcing Nigeria to change their plans.
Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle introduced Wilfred Ndidi and Tolu Arokodare after the break. The pair settled the match by scoring twice within 15 minutes, securing the victory and strengthening Nigeria’s position in second place in their qualifying group. That position guarantees their participation in the tournament.
Unless there is an unexpected development, Lookman is unlikely to be available for Tuesday’s return fixture against Tanzania. His absence has increased concern at Atletico, who are waiting for a clearer assessment before establishing the length of his lay-off.
The international break had been intended as an opportunity for Lookman to rediscover his form following several challenging weeks with Diego Simeone’s side. He had lost his place in Atletico’s starting XI and was not even used as a substitute against Barcelona, with Simeone acknowledging that the player was not currently at his best.
Lookman had welcomed the chance to join up with Nigeria in the hope of restoring his confidence and returning to scoring form. Instead, his involvement has so far ended with another setback and an injury concern.
Atletico will return to competitive action on 22 November, when they host Getafe in La Liga. Whether Lookman is involved will depend on how quickly he recovers, making the coming days important for both the player and his club.
Atletico will take a cautious approach while the medical team establishes the full extent of the problem. A minor injury could allow Lookman to return swiftly and compete for his place, but a longer absence would keep one of the club’s important signings this season on the sidelines at a time when his team need him.
