By Michael Madyira
Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman showed Bafana Bafana what to expect from him at the 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier in June.
On Wednesday night, the 26-year-old scored a hat-trick to help Atalanta beat Bayer Leverkusen and clinch the Uefa Europa League at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium.
The Nigeria international became the first player to score three goals in a Europa League final.
Closely following this performance, coach Hugo Broos and his defenders will have to deal with the former England Under-21 attacker in the upcoming World Cup qualifier.
South Africa visits Nigeria for a Group C showdown in Uyo on June 7, and if Lookman is fit, that could be a concern for Broos’ men.
The former Everton star’s confidence has shot up, and he has declared that more should be expected of him.
“I’ve always had the confidence in my ability,” said Lookman, BBC Sport reported.
“In the past two years, I’ve been able to take my game to a new level and show it on a more consistent basis. Maybe it could have come earlier, but it’s now. I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made, but this is just the beginning. I hope for more nights like this.”
Lookman lasted until extra time when Bafana was knocked out of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament by Nigeria at the semi-final stage in February.
He scored three goals in seven games at the continental competition, but his Europa League performance could inspire him to go on duty for the national team.
Pictured above: Atalanta and Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman.
Image source: Uefa Europe League
