Victor Osimhen has finally spoken and shut down speculation of a rift with Ademola Lookman following their on-pitch exchange during Nigeria’s Round of 16 clash at the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025.
Osimhen insists that the matter has been fully resolved and that there is no animosity between the two teammates.
The incident occurred in the 63rd minute of the match, with the Super Eagles already cruising at 3–0, when television cameras captured a brief but animated exchange between Osimhen and Lookman.
The Napoli striker appeared visibly frustrated after not receiving a pass during a promising attacking move.
Osimhen was heard saying:
“Hey, hey, it’s a team game. Listen to me, bro.”
Lookman responded calmly in an apparent attempt to ease the situation, referencing Osimhen’s impact in the game:
“Bro, you scored two. You got two.”
Moments later, Osimhen gestured towards the bench and requested to be substituted.
He was subsequently withdrawn and replaced by Moses Simon, a decision that further fueled speculation about the nature of the exchange.
At the final whistle, Osimhen headed straight down the tunnel rather than joining his teammates for the customary post-match routine, adding to the growing narrative around a possible disagreement.
Victor Osimhen Speaks – ‘Everything Is Clear’
Osimhen later addressed the situation himself, offering clarity on both the exchange and his relationship with Lookman, while also showering praise on his teammate.
“Lookman knows my thoughts towards him. I spoke with him in person and everything is clear.”
The Super Eagles striker went further, singling out Lookman’s individual journey and achievements:
“He is the clear favourite to win it. I told him to enjoy it with his family because I know how much he struggled to get to where he is.”
“It will be a big moment for him and an overwhelming one to be named African footballer of the year.”
Osimhen continued:
“It is definitely a reward for hard work and for what he has done this season.”
“He has impressed us, he has really put us on the map, and he has given us bragging rights, knowing fully well that he is from Nigeria.”
Lookman Dismisses Rift Claims
Speaking earlier at the post-match press conference, Ademola Lookman played down suggestions of any serious fallout, describing the incident as a routine 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.”
Reinforcing his stance, Lookman concluded:
“Nothing happened between Osimhen and me. It was just a discussion on the pitch.”
Man of the Match Against Algeria
Osimhen was Nigeria’s standout performer in the quarter-final victory over Algeria, producing a commanding and dominant display that included one goal and one assist.
His influence and leadership on the night earned him the official Man of the Match award.
The Super Eagles secured a hard-fought 2–0 win over the North African giants in Fes, Morocco, sealing their place in the AFCON 2025 semi-finals.
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Message to the Fans
Following the victory, Osimhen appreciated the Super Eagles supporters across the globe, acknowledging the difficulty of the contest and the importance of unity as the tournament reaches its decisive stages.
“Super Eagles fans, thank you so much for your support. This victory was not easy, but we were able to get the win against Algeria.”
He added:
“Thank you for your support worldwide. We will continue to build on this momentum and hopefully get to the final and win it.”
