Nigeria forward Ademola Lookman says the Super Eagles were left bitterly disappointed by their Africa Cup of Nations semi‑final defeat to Morocco, even though they responded by securing third place.
Nigeria bounced back to beat Egypt 4–2 on penalties in the bronze‑medal match after a goalless draw, but the loss to the hosts still stings.
Speaking to beIN SPORTS, Lookman explained that the team had travelled to Morocco with one clear goal: to win the title, only for the shootout against the Atlas Lions to end those hopes. He admitted the penalty defeat “dashed” their ambitions, contrasting it with the Egypt game where the roles were reversed and Nigeria prevailed from the spot.
Lookman stressed that overcoming Egypt on penalties was far from easy and required real mental strength from the squad.
Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali, who was named man of the match, said the third‑place clash was also difficult after the frustration of missing the final, but felt his award was a reward for the collective effort of a group that fully deserved to finish on the podium.
