Ademola Lookman will miss Nigeria’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Tanzania in Zanzibar on Tuesday after suffering a knee ligament sprain.

The Atlético Madrid forward sustained the injury during Nigeria’s 3-1 victory over Tanzania in Uyo on Friday and was substituted before the end of the first half, with Moses Simon taking his place.

A medical examination conducted after the match confirmed the extent of the injury, ruling Lookman out of the return fixture, according to the Super Eagles’ medical team.

The setback leaves head coach, Éric Chelle without another key attacking option as Nigeria prepares for the second meeting with the Taifa Stars.

Nigeria are already dealing with the absence of Victor Osimhen, who is sidelined after undergoing surgery for a knee injury suffered while playing for Galatasaray.

Chelle will therefore have to rely on other attacking options as the Super Eagles seek another victory in Zanzibar and strengthen their qualification campaign for the 2027 AFCON.