The blockbuster clash had generated rave reviews prior to the match as the old rivals squared off yet again at the Africa’s showpiece, but it was the Nigerians who came out tops with a comfortable victory in Abidjan.
Meanwhile, it was the Indomitable Lions made the first attempt as Moumi Ngamaleu sent an early effort wide inside the box in the third minute.
In the 36th-minute, Lookman was played through by Victor Osimhen and his shot squeezed through goalkeeper Fabrice Ondoa, who was chosen ahead of Manchester United’s Andre Onana.
Inspired by the lively Osimhen, Nigeria continued to create chances after the restart as Lookman’s free-kick agonisingly whistled over the bar.
However, an injury to goalkeeper Stanley Nwabili – who did not have a save to make before his departure in the 75th minute – slightly soured the night for Jose Peseiro’s side.
The Golden Boot winner of the 2021 edition, Vincent Aboubakar was introduced for his first appearance of the tournament but with just over 10 minutes of normal time remaining, the Cameroon striker failed to have any influence.
Lookman secured victory with a tidy finish from Calvin Bassey’s cross in stoppage-time and Nigeria can now look forward to a meeting with Angola.
The Super Eagles were inspired by Osimhen, who had been under pressure to shine after three underwhelming performances in the group stages. While he was unable to add to his solitary goal in the tournament, the African Player of the Year created the opener and asked questions of the opponents’ defence all evening.
Should he replicate this kind of performance further in the tournament, Nigeria will feel they have every chance of winning a fourth AFCON title
Two goals from Ademola Lookman, one in each half, gave the Super Eagles a 2-0 win over Cameroon’s Indomitable Lions for progress into the quarter-finals at the 2023 AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire.
