Sport
“Choosing Nigeria Was the Best Decision of My Career” – Ademola Lookman
Ademola Lookman has described his choice to play for Nigeria as one of the most rewarding decisions of his career.
The talented winger, born in Wandsworth, London, to Nigerian parents, initially wore the English jersey at the youth level.
He was part of England’s U-20 team that lifted the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2017, marking a major milestone for the young Three Lions.
However, in February 2022, Lookman made the significant decision to switch his international allegiance to Nigeria.
The decision materialized a month later when he made his debut for the Super Eagles during a crucial 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Ghana.
Although Nigeria fell short of securing a place at the World Cup, Lookman’s commitment to his roots had already set the stage for a promising international career.
Earlier this year, Lookman got his first taste of a major tournament with Nigeria at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire. He didn’t just participate — he shined.
His agility, skill, and composure on the ball earned him three goals and an assist over the course of seven matches.
His standout performances were pivotal in propelling Nigeria to the final, where they narrowly lost to the host nation.
His efforts were recognized when he was named in the AFCON Team of the Tournament.
Reflecting on his journey in an interview with Sporty TV, the 27-year-old expressed how much this chapter of his career has meant to him.
“Choosing to play for Nigeria was a massive turning point for me. Every moment wearing the Super Eagles jersey has been a blessing,” Lookman said.
He mentioned the unity within the squad, emphasizing how the players’ bond and teamwork have contributed to their progress.
“We’ve achieved a lot together and are still growing. The togetherness we share is something special,” he added.
French football pundit Walid Acherchour has named Lamine Yamal as his pick to win the 2026 Ballon d’Or, sparking reactions among football fans.
Acherchour’s choice came as a surprise to some fans, who expected him to support fellow Frenchman Kylian Mbappé instead.
Speaking about his prediction, Acherchour expressed confidence in Yamal’s chances of winning the prestigious individual award.
“For me, Lamine Yamal, he is going to get it [2026 Ballon d’Or]. For me, there’s no doubt anymore,” Acherchour said, as quoted by Actu Foot. That start to the season shows that in fact, he was injured during the World Cup. He was the best player in La Liga, and he won the World Cup.
“Even if, for me, in fact, he doesn’t have the Ballon d’Or unanimously because his World Cup was average, even being average, he won it with Spain. He won La Liga with Barça.”
Former Manchester City player David Silva has shared his thoughts on the 2026 Ballon d’Or and revealed who he believes could win the prestigious award.
During a recent interview, the former midfielder was asked who he thinks will win the award, and he named Fabian Ruiz.
Silva’s choice sparked reactions from fans, especially as he did not mention Barcelona star Lamine Yamal as one of his picks.
“For me, teamwork is the most important thing, because without it you cannot win. If I had to give the Ballon d’Or to someone, it would be Fabian, because he has won the most titles in the last two years.
“He does not get enough recognition, I do not know why, because he is a wonderful player. I admire him a lot.”
Cristiano Ronaldo’s future with the Portugal national team remains uncertain following his sudden departure from the squad ahead of the team’s Nations League match against Denmark.
The 41-year-old forward left the national team camp after he was left on the bench during Portugal’s 2-1 win over Norway and was informed that he would not start against Denmark. Ronaldo later said he would explain his decision to leave the camp at a later time.
Portugal coach Jorge Jesus has since said the door remains open for Ronaldo to return to the national team. Jesus said the decision ultimately rests with Ronaldo, while the Portuguese Football Federation has also described the situation as a misunderstanding.
Ronaldo remains Portugal’s all-time leading scorer, with 146 goals in 234 appearances, and his next decision could determine how his international career ends.
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