Super Eagles: Will Ademola Lookman be fit for Tanzania second leg? – What we know

Super Eagles attacker Ademola Lookman limped off the pitch injured in the 44th minute of Nigeria’s 3-1 win over Tanzania on Friday.

​The forward provided the assist for Nigeria’s opening goal in the second minute, but he was mostly quiet after that. Then, in the 42nd minute, he went down clutching his calf — barely a minute after his goal-bound shot was blocked by a defender.

​Lookman had to be replaced by Moses Simon, who came on in first-half stoppage time and saw out the remainder of the 90 minutes.

​The Atalanta star’s injury and early withdrawal have raised doubts over his availability for the second leg in Tanzania on Tuesday, November 17.

​In this article, Afrik-Foot provides everything you need to know about Lookman’s injury.

​What Exactly Happened to Lookman?

​At first, it appeared Lookman had sustained a calf injury. However, after Nigeria beat Tanzania 3-1, head coach Éric Chelle confirmed that the forward felt discomfort in his knee.

​”His knee took a knock, but we don’t know the full extent yet. He felt that when he tried to shoot, his knee started to bother him,” Chelle said post-match.

​During the press conference, Chelle appeared concerned about the situation, though he could not confirm the Nigerian’s availability for the return fixture.

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle gives update on attacker Ademola Lookman as he could likely miss the Eagles clash away at Tanzania https://t.co/tng2hlf3I8

— footballtemple (@footballtempleX) November 14, 2026

​Will Lookman Play in the Super Eagles’ Clash in Tanzania?

​The former African champions will travel to Tanzania for the second leg on Tuesday, November 17, and it promises to be a sterner test for the three-time African champions.

​However, it appears unlikely that Lookman will feature. Typically, the medical staff will need to scan the area to assess the severity of the damage before making any decision.

​Knee injuries are delicate and require cautious management, as severe ligament or cartilage tears can sideline a player for up to a year.

​In Lookman’s case, his club will likely be monitoring the situation closely and may even request his immediate return for comprehensive assessments and treatment.

​Moreover, with Nigeria securing the first-leg victory and holding the advantage, there is little incentive to risk him in a fixture the Super Eagles remain well-equipped to navigate.