Ademola Lookman has played down suggestions of a rift with Victor Osimhen following their on-field disagreement during Nigeria’s 4–0 win over Mozambique on Monday, a result that sealed the Super Eagles’ place in the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals.
Speaking after the match, Lookman described the incident as a normal football moment, insisting there were no personal issues between them. He praised Osimhen as a key figure in the team and stressed that the emphatic victory mattered more than any brief exchange, noting that both players remain united and focused on the team’s objectives.
The confrontation occurred in the 63rd minute with Nigeria already three goals ahead, when Osimhen, chasing a hat-trick, reacted angrily after not receiving a pass. The situation required intervention from captain Wilfred Ndidi and others before Osimhen was later substituted.
Ndidi later described the incident as a product of competitiveness, saying it was resolved internally. Lookman, who scored once and assisted two goals in the match, also dismissed personal ambitions for the Golden Boot, stating his priority was Nigeria’s progress. Head coach Eric Chelle confirmed the matter would be handled within the squad, as attention shifts to the quarter-finals and the Super Eagles’ push for continental success.
