WQ:Ademola Lookman To Miss Super Eagles’ Decisive Clash With Benin Republic Through Suspension
1 min read
By Sportsgister
Nigeria will be without Ademola Lookman for Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic, after the winger picked up a suspension in the 2–1 win over Lesotho on Friday in Polokwane.
The Atalanta forward received his second yellow card of the qualifying campaign in the 64th minute, after retaliating against an opponent. Chadian referee Alhadi Allaou Mahamat promptly booked the 27-year-old, ruling him out of the final group fixture.
Lookman had earlier been cautioned during Nigeria’s 1–1 draw against South Africa last month, which means he will now serve a one-match suspension.
With Lookman unavailable, Samuel Chukwueze is expected to return to the starting lineup.
The Fulham winger came on as a second-half substitute against Lesotho and is likely to fill the void on the right flank as Nigeria seek a win that would seal their World Cup qualification.
Lookman’s absence will be a blow for the Super Eagles, as the in-form winger has been a key attacking outlet throughout the qualifying series, contributing pace, creativity, and direct play from the wings.
Nigeria will now look to regroup quickly and maintain focus as they prepare for the decisive clash against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday.
