Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
Home
»
World Cup 2026
»
WILL ADEMOLA LOOKMAN PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Ademola Lookman has been tearing it up in Europe and made it clear that his choice to represent Nigeria was more than just symbolic. The striker, born in England but with Nigerian roots, has been key to the Super Eagles' resurgence, and his name is being mentioned frequently for the 2026 World Cup. But has Nigeria qualified? Is Lookman's place guaranteed? In this article, we'll tell you everything you need to know, with facts, interesting tidbits, and some juicy analysis for those who live and breathe football.
Top season in Europe and great form with Nigeria
Ademola Lookman has enjoyed one of the best seasons of his career at Atalanta. Since arriving at the Italian club, he has found consistency, confidence, and a system of play that brings out the best in him. In the 2024/25 Serie A season, he was one of the most dynamic attackers in the league.
Stats that speak for themselves
Lookman played 34 league matches, scored 14 goals, and provided 9 assists. His average number of direct goal involvements was 0.67 per game. Furthermore, he was instrumental in European competitions, scoring 5 goals in the Conference League, including a hat-trick in the final that gave Atalanta the title. Yes, a true MVP.
14 goals in Serie A
9 assists
5 goals in Conference League
Hat-trick in a final European
79% successful dribbles
Wearing the Nigerian shirt
Since he decided to represent Nigeria instead of England, Lookman has fit perfectly into the team. At the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, he was one of the tournament's best players, scoring 3 goals and being selected for the tournament's Best XI. He is currently one of the most influential players in the African qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. His partnership with Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze has the Super Eagles dreaming big. 13 appearances for Nigeria, 6 goals and 4 assists. Named Player of the Month in two consecutive FIFA windows. It's clear: if Nigeria qualifies, Lookman will be an undisputed starter. And not only that, it could be its main attraction.
How are Nigeria doing in the African qualifiers?
Nigeria has a history in the World Cups. Since USA 94, they have been a regular contender, although they missed out on Qatar 2022. Now, with a renewed generation, it seems that their ticket to 2026 is closer than ever.
Position in the group
The Super Eagles share a group with South Africa, Benin, Rwanda, Lesotho, and Zimbabwe. With four matchdays remaining, they lead the table with 10 points, having won 3 matches and drawn 1. They have the best goal difference in the group (+8) and have only conceded 2 goals.
1st place with 10 points
3 wins, 1 draw
9 goals for, 2 against
Undefeated in 2025
Lookman, key to qualifying
Ademola has been a key player in all the qualifying matches. He already has 3 goals and 2 assists on the road to 2026, including a stunning strike against South Africa from outside the box. He is the team's most unpredictable player alongside Osimhen and one of the most consistent in all of Africa.
Coach José Peseiro has built a system that revolves around speed and unpredictability, and Lookman fits the bill perfectly. His mobility, one-on-one ability, and finishing make him a lethal weapon down the left flank.
If Nigeria maintains this pace, they will not only qualify: they could be one of the teams to watch in the World Cup group stage.
Interesting facts and predictions for 2026
Lookman has a peculiar story. Born in England, he played for English youth teams, but his heart always belonged to Nigeria. By choosing to play for the Super Eagles, he didn't just win a jersey: he gained a footballing and emotional identity that empowered him as a player.
Did you know...?
He studied at a math school before turning professional.
He made his Premier League debut with Everton... scoring a goal against Manchester City!
He speaks three languages: English, Yoruba, and some Italian.
His favorite player is Ronaldinho.
He participates in social projects in Lagos and London.
And at the World Cup?
If everything goes according to plan, Nigeria will qualify for the 2026 World Cup and Lookman will be one of the starting strikers. He will be 29 years old, the perfect age to unleash his full talent and leadership. He will no longer be a promise, he will be a reality.
Analysts are already projecting Nigeria as a possible dark horse of the tournament. With a solid foundation, players in top leagues, and an attacking style, the Super Eagles could make a name for themselves. And there, Ademola Lookman will be a name many will learn to pronounce... if they don't already.
So yes, barring injury or a very strange surprise, Lookman isn't just going to the 2026 World Cup: he's going to leave his mark.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED
