Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has offered a detailed assessment of Ademola Lookman’s physical condition during the latter stages of the Africa Cup of Nations, admitting that the winger’s workload during the tournament eventually took its toll despite his outstanding performances for Nigeria.

Speaking on RMC Sport’s After Foot, Chelle explained that Lookman arrived at the tournament without much competitive rhythm early in the season, a factor that later influenced his physical output as the Afcon progressed.

The coach provided context to his remarks by highlighting Lookman’s season buildup before Nigeria’s continental campaign.

“Ademola Lookman, his start to the season in September, he did not play much either,” Chelle said on the programme, pointing to the limited minutes the attacker had accumulated before the tournament.

Despite that slow start, Lookman quickly emerged as one of Nigeria’s most influential players during the Afcon group stage.

His direct running, goals, and creative output were central to the Super Eagles’ attacking play as they navigated the early phase of the competition with confidence.

Chelle was full of praise for the former Atalanta forward’s impact during that period.

“He gave his all in this group phase, he was very good. So exceptional, very, very good,” the Super Eagles coach said.

However, as the tournament reached its decisive stages, Chelle acknowledged that the physical demands began to show, particularly in the knockout rounds.

Nigeria pushed deep into the competition and eventually finished third, but the intensity of the matches exposed signs of fatigue among key players.

Chelle explained that Lookman’s performances remained committed, even as his physical sharpness dipped slightly.

“And in the quarterfinals, if you look closely at the match, physically he’s good but starts to falter a little and it’s true we felt they were tired,” Chelle added.

Lookman’s Afcon displays further enhanced his reputation and paved the way for a major career step shortly after the tournament, as he completed a move to Atlético Madrid, where he marked his debut with a goal and an assist.

Wale Adejumo