Nigeria will be without star forward Ademola Lookman for their crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Group C leaders Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday.
Lookman is suspended after receiving his second yellow card of the qualifying campaign during Friday’s 2–1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa. The caution automatically sidelines him from the must-win encounter.
The incident occurred in the 64th minute, when Lookman, reacting to a tough tackle in midfield, body-checked his opponent. Chadian referee Alhadi Allaou Mahamat interpreted the act as retaliation and booked him.
It was Lookman’s second caution of the series, his first having come in the 18th minute of last month’s away draw against South Africa. The accumulation of cards triggered the one-match ban.
Lookman was among eight Super Eagles players walking a disciplinary tightrope heading into the Lesotho game. Nigeria must now secure victory over Benin to keep their World Cup qualification hopes alive.
