Nigerians React as Lookman Scores, Defies Prophet Ayodele’s AFCON Warning

Ademola Lookman’s decisive goal against Tanzania has sparked lively reactions across Nigeria, after reports surfaced that cleric Primate Elijah Ayodele had warned the Super Eagles not to play the Atalanta forward at AFCON 2025. The prophecy reportedly said Lookman “is not meant to play, as he won’t help” Nigeria, while cautioning that Victor Osimhen should not play 90 minutes.

Despite the warning, Lookman started the Group C opener in Fès and restored Nigeria’s lead after Tanzania had equalised, helping the Super Eagles to a 2-1 victory. His performance has now prompted a wave of reactions online, with Nigerians using social media to comment on the failed prophecy:

• “So this is the Lookman they said should not play? Football no dey respect prophecy, na pitch e dey answer.”
• “When ball start rolling, prophecy take back seat. Lookman silenced everybody with that goal.”
• “Please next time let coach listen to tactics, not visions. Lookman showed why he’s African Player of the Year.”
• “Na so dem talk say don’t play Lookman. If coach listen, we for lose 2 points today.”
• “Football is played with legs and brain, not prophecy. Big up Lookman ”
• “This is why pastors should stick to the pulpit. Lookman for pitch, goal for net.”
• “‘Don’t play Lookman’ — Nigeria: plays Lookman — Lookman: scores winner ”
• “Prophecy vs preparation. Preparation won tonight.”
• “Lookman didn’t just score, he debunked that prophecy completely.”
• “Abeg leave Super Eagles matter for coaches. Lookman na baller, simple.”

Other fans were quick to highlight that form, confidence, and preparation matter more than any prophecy:

• “God bless Lookman for reminding everybody say football no dey emotional.”
• “Iwobi assist, Lookman goal, prophecy cancelled.”
• “If coach had listened to that prophecy, Nigerians for drag am mercilessly.”

Lookman’s goal has shifted the focus back to football, as Nigerians rally behind the team ahead of upcoming matches against Tunisia on December 27 and Uganda on December 30. For many, the striker’s performance is proof that talent and preparation matter more than predictions off the pitch.

The Super Eagles now carry the momentum into the rest of their AFCON 2025 campaign, with fans confident that on the pitch, results speak louder than words or warnings.