Super Eagles head coach, Eric Sékou Chelle has moved swiftly to calm nerves following a brief on-pitch disagreement between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s big 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Amid Nigeria’s dominant display in Fes, a moment of tension between the two attacking stars briefly stole the spotlight, sparking debate among fans and pundits alike.
What Happened on the Pitch?
The incident occurred in the 63rd minute, with Nigeria already cruising at 3–0, when Television cameras captured a heated exchange between Osimhen and Lookman, following a passage of play in which the Napoli striker appeared frustrated at not receiving a pass.
Osimhen was heard saying:
“Hey, hey, it’s a team game. Listen to me, bro.”
Lookman responded calmly, attempting to defuse the situation by referencing Osimhen’s goals:
“Bro, you scored two. You got two.”
Moments later, Osimhen signalled to the bench and requested a substitution. He was subsequently withdrawn and replaced by Moses Simon, a decision that further fuelled speculation about the exchange.
After the final whistle, Osimhen headed straight down the tunnel rather than joining his teammates for the customary post-match routine.
Ademola Lookman Plays Down Rift Talk
Speaking during the post-match press conference, Ademola Lookman dismissed suggestions of any serious disagreement, insisting the moment was nothing more than an in-game discussion.
“I have not seen [Victor] Osimhen, but I don’t think that matters.”
“Vic is our number one guy; everybody knows this. He’s a top striker. So all of that doesn’t matter.”
He later added:
“Nothing happened between Osimhen and me. It was just a discussion on the pitch.”
Eric Chelle: “Everything That Happens in the Group Stays in the Group”
Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle also addressed the incident publicly, making it clear that he would not entertain external speculation.
“This is a question about my management, and what happened on the pitch will stay in the group.”
“I don’t need to tell anyone what happened.”
The Franco-Malian tactician stressed discipline and unity within the camp:
“Everything that happened in the group stays in the group, so we will see after that and we will talk.”
Chelle further noted that individual egos would not be allowed to derail Nigeria’s objectives at AFCON 2025:
“This team is about unity and focus. There is no room for egos here.”
“We have a goal, and everything we do is geared towards achieving that goal.”
A Dominant Night for the Super Eagles
The disagreement came on a night when Nigeria were largely imperious.
Victor Osimhen scored twice to continue his climb up Nigeria’s all-time scoring charts, while Ademola Lookman delivered one of the standout performances of the tournament.
The Atalanta winger registered a goal and two assists, setting up Osimhen and Akor Adams, and was deservedly named Man of the Match for the second time at AFCON 2025.
Lookman now boasts seven goal involvements at the tournament; three goals and four assists.
No Cause for Alarm in Eagles Camp
There is no indication of deeper issues within the squad. Comments from players such as Calvin Bassey and Frank Onyeka have reinforced the message that the Super Eagles’ dressing room remains united, even when emotions spill over during high-pressure moments.
Statistically, both players remain central to Nigeria’s success:
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Victor Osimhen: 3 goals, 1 assist in 4 appearances
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Ademola Lookman: 3 goals, 4 assists in 3 appearances
Nigeria have now won all their matches at AFCON 2025, maintaining momentum and establishing themselves as one of the tournament favourites.
Eyes on the Quarter-Finals
With the Mozambique hurdle cleared, Nigeria have shifted focus to a crucial quarter-final clash against either Algeria.
The Super Eagles are chasing their fourth AFCON title, having previously lifted the trophy in 1980, 1994 and 2013, and are eager to go one step further after finishing runners-up at the 2023 edition.
