By Ghazali Ibrahim
Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman delivered a dramatic response to pre‑tournament prophecy on Tuesday, scoring the decisive goal in Nigeria’s 2–1 AFCON 2025 Group C win over Tanzania.
This is a strike that many fans say debunked a prophecy by cleric Primate Elijah Ayodele.
In the build‑up to Nigeria’s opening game, the spiritual leader publicly warned that Lookman should not play for the Super Eagles at the tournament, claiming his inclusion could hinder the team’s success.
The prophecy also suggested that star striker Victor Osimhen should not play the full 90 minutes. Critics of the warning urged the team to focus on tactical decisions rather than spiritual predictions.
But in morocco, Lookman silenced the doubters. After Tanzania had briefly drawn level following a second‑half goal from Charles M’Mombwa, the Atalanta forward struck just two minutes later with a superb finish, restoring Nigeria’s lead and ultimately securing the victory.
The goal sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with many Nigerians scoffing at the earlier prophecy and praising the forward’s performance.
Ademola was crowned as the African Footballer of the Year following his successful appearances at the last AFCON having a total of 4 goals, 1 assist in the nation’s cup.
Comments ranged from “football no dey respect prophecy” to “Lookman showed why coaches should trust tactics over predictions.”
Supporters insisted the strike was proof that preparation and form matter more than off‑field forecasts.
With the win, the Super Eagles head into their next matches against Tunisia and Uganda carrying both three points and renewed confidence that their footballing destiny remains in the hands of players and coaches.
