Tag: Lookman

  • Osimhen, Lookman among world’s top attackers – Troost-Ekong

    Osimhen, Lookman among world’s top attackers – Troost-Ekong

    Nigeria’s Super Eagles Captain, William Troost-Ekong, has lavished praise on Victor Osimhen, ranking him among the world’s top attackers alongside teammate Ademola Lookman.

    Speaking in Kigali on Friday, Troost-Ekong singled out Osimhen’s impressive performance, which saw him score a brace in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over Rwanda.

    While acknowledging Osimhen’s outstanding display, Troost-Ekong emphasised the collective effort that led to the team’s success.

    He said, “It is not about individual performances.

    “The win against Rwanda was a testament to the team’s hard work and dedication. Everyone played their part, and it is this unity that will drive us forward.”

    He said it was important also to see player like Tolu Arokodare making his debut from the bench and applauded Alhassan Yusuf who Troost-Ekong said was played out of position.

    Troost-Ekong also congratulated Eric Chelle for his first win, adding that “the game was not easy.”

    “We try to understand what the coach want from us. We have only had two training sessions and lots of video sessions too.

    “Today’s win is a glimpse of what we should expect under Coach Eric Chelle” Troost-Ekong said.

    He attributed the highlight of his career to being part of the team over the past decade, during which he had the privilege of learning from numerous captains.

    These experiences, he noted, have greatly facilitated his role in coordinating the team, allowing him to create an environment where new players can thrive and express themselves freely.

  • UCL: Lookman returns to training as Atalanta host Club Brugge

    UCL: Lookman returns to training as Atalanta host Club Brugge

    Ademola Lookman and Sead Kolasinac have returned to Atalanta training just in time for their decisive UEFA Champions League second-leg playoff against Club Brugge.

    Their availability provides a much-needed boost for La Dea as they aim to overturn a first-leg deficit.

    According to Eco di Bergamo correspondent Giulia Mazzoleni, both players were spotted participating in training at Atalanta’s facility on Monday afternoon.

    Atalanta’s recent form has been concerning. While they were contenders in the Serie A title race before the winter break, their fortunes have taken a sharp downturn. They have since been eliminated from the Coppa Italia, struggled in the league and now face a tough challenge in Europe.

    Despite a dominant 5-0 win over Hellas Verona 10 days ago, Atalanta followed up their 3-2 first-leg loss in Belgium with a frustrating goalless draw against Cagliari at home. Meanwhile, Club Brugge have been formidable in Europe, securing key results against Aston Villa, Sporting CP and Juventus.

    The first leg saw Brugge take the lead in the 15th minute through Ferran Jutgla before Mario Pasalic equalized for Atalanta before halftime. However, a last-minute penalty from Gustaf Nilsson secured a 3-2 victory for the Belgian side.

    Atalanta are still managing defensive injury concerns, with Kolasinac and Italy international Giorgio Scalvini among those struggling for full fitness. Lookman has also been dealing with a knee injury, making his return to training a positive sign.

    On the other hand, Club Brugge arrive in Bergamo with a fully fit squad and no suspension concerns, meaning they can field an unchanged starting eleven.

    Atalanta’s inconsistency has put their season at risk, having won just three of their last 13 matches across all competitions. However, with home advantage, they still have a chance to push this tie to extra time or even stage a comeback.