Sport
“Don’t Let Your Failures Break Your Wings”- Lookman on Winning CAF Player of the Year
Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman delivered an inspiring and heartfelt acceptance speech after being named the 2024 CAF Player of the Year.
The 27-year-old Nigerian footballer received the prestigious award, beating out strong competition from top names such as Ivory Coast’s Simon Adingra, PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea striker Serhou Guirassy, and South Africa goalkeeper Ronwen Williams.
In his acceptance speech, Lookman took a moment to reflect on a pivotal turning point in his career.
He recalled an unforgettable moment from 2020 when he was playing for Fulham in the Premier League.
In a crucial match against West Ham, Lookman attempted a panenka-style penalty in the dying moments of the game.
His delicate chip lacked the necessary power, and the ball meekly landed into the hands of West Ham’s goalkeeper, Lukasz Fabianski.
Fulham went on to lose 1-0, and the miss became a memorable moment of disappointment in Lookman’s career.
However, Lookman didn’t allow that moment to define him.
Instead, he used it as a catalyst for growth and determination.
Reflecting on the incident, Lookman said, “Just over four years ago, I failed in front of the world. Fast forward four years and I’m the best player in Africa.”
“To the young children and people watching this,” Lookman continued, “don’t let your failures weigh you down to the point where they break your wings.
Turn your pain into your power and continue to fly.”
Ghanaian Referee, Daniel Laryea, who officiated the Nigeria vs Morocco game in AFCON gets interviews and shared his experience.
The referee reveals how it was his first time in a semi final and was kind of nervous. “I’ve been to three AFCON tournaments, but this is the first time I’ve been in a semi-final.”
“So when coaches choose you for that game, they know your skills and what you can do. But of course, you feel a little nervous because of the level of the match.”
Nigerian Footballer, Bright Osayi-Samuel , react to match as Super Eagles lose to Morocco.
The player calls out CAF for their referee appointment. He shares how the Ghanaian Referee was tough on the field and made bad choices.
“One thing I would say is that the referee was really bad. I’m not saying that was the reason we lost. He is making really bad choices and it’s really tough to watch because we have referees like this in big games like today.
He then praises Morocco for a good game “But Morocco did really well.”
Super Eagles Coach, Eric Chelle speaks and shared why Nigeria lost the AFCON match to Morocco.
It can be noted that the match was held on the 14th of January, 2026. Nigeria lost the match with a draft in the penalties, 4-2.
During a recent interview, Chelle shared his observations about the match and shared why they lost.
“From a technical point of view, the Super Eagles weren’t at the same level as we displayed in our other matches.”
“I don’t want to say the reason was fatigue, but the truth is that we lacked movement and power.”
‘Stop Kissing Babies Mouth-to-Mouth’ — Angela Okorie Sparks Debate Online
‘May His Soul Rest in Peace’ — Destiny Boy Reportedly Passes Away
Former Nickelodeon Star Kianna Underwood Dies After Hit-and-Run Incident at 33
-
Entertainment13 hours agoFormer Nickelodeon Star Kianna Underwood Dies After Hit-and-Run Incident at 33
-
Entertainment13 hours ago‘May His Soul Rest in Peace’ — Destiny Boy Reportedly Passes Away
-
Sport13 hours agoI Was a Bit Nervous’ — Referee Daniel Laryea Reflects on AFCON Semi-Final Experience
-
Entertainment13 hours ago‘Stop Kissing Babies Mouth-to-Mouth’ — Angela Okorie Sparks Debate Online