Osimhen–Lookman Rift Resolved as Super Eagles Reunite Ahead of AFCON Quarterfinal
Super Eagles media officer Promise Efoghe has confirmed that the internal misunderstanding involving Victor Osimhen, which briefly unsettled Nigeria’s camp at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, has been fully resolved.
PulseNets learnt that the development followed reports that Osimhen had considered leaving the Super Eagles’ camp and returning to his club side, Galatasaray, after a tense on-field exchange with Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the round of 16 on Monday.
The disagreement, which stemmed from a disputed pass during the match, sparked concerns about unity within the squad at a critical stage of the tournament. However, speaking on the matter, Efoghe played down the situation, stressing that harmony has been restored within the team.
PulseNets obtained confirmation that the Super Eagles’ camp remains stable, with all players fully committed to the national assignment in Morocco.
“There is absolutely no problem in the team,” Efoghe told PulseNets. “The internal misunderstanding was resolved amicably, and we are united and focused on our objective going forward.”
Meanwhile, Ademola Lookman also downplayed the incident, describing it as a routine football moment that should not be overblown. Addressing journalists after the match, the winger emphasised the collective spirit within the squad and reiterated his respect for Osimhen.
“We won the game 4–0, and that is what matters,” Lookman said. “Vic is our number one guy; everyone knows that. He’s a top striker and a top player. Everything else is secondary.”
He added, “There’s no issue at all. It’s football—always football. Osimhen is my brother.”
Head coach Eric Chelle also maintained a calm stance on the matter, insisting that issues arising during matches are handled internally. Speaking at his post-match press conference, Chelle noted that he prefers to address such situations privately with his players rather than in the public space.
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“What happens on the pitch stays within the group,” Chelle stated. “I don’t need to explain everything publicly. I will discuss it with the players, and we will move forward together.”
With the issue now behind them, the Super Eagles are set to turn their full attention to their quarterfinal encounter, where they will face the winner of the round of 16 clash between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Algeria.
