Super Eagles head coach Jose Peseiro has lauded the performances of Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, offering insights into their contributions and highlighting Osimhen as Nigeria’s standout figure.

Despite Osimhen’s goal-scoring challenges in Cote d’Ivoire, with only one goal to his name, Peseiro emphasized Osimhen’s overall impact on the team. Peseiro praised Osimhen for his hard work, both in attack and defense, highlighting his role in providing depth to the team.

Lookman, on the other hand, showcased his prowess during the knockout rounds, netting three crucial goals that propelled Nigeria to the AFCON final. Peseiro acknowledged Lookman as a significant figure in the squad, recognizing his influential contributions.

Peseiro, however, firmly declared Osimhen as the most outstanding Nigerian player, stating, “Our biggest figure is Osimhen, who works hard for the team: attacking, defending, and providing a lot of depth.”

While praising Lookman’s fantastic tournament, Peseiro admitted that the Atalanta forward initially faced challenges adapting to African football. The Portuguese tactician acknowledged Lookman’s sacrifices and highlighted the differences in playing conditions, including food and logistics, compared to European football.

“He’s the son of Nigerians, and he already played for England U-17s, but he came to play with us, as others have,” Peseiro said of Lookman. “Lookman is having a fantastic tournament, but when he arrived, he had difficulties adapting to African football, as others have.”

As Nigeria prepares to face hosts Cote d’Ivoire in the AFCON final, both Lookman and Osimhen are expected to play crucial roles, showcasing their talents on the continental stage.