AFCON 2025: Osimhen, Lookman rift settled as Super Eagles refocus on Algeria

Officials of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have confirmed that the reported disagreement between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman has been resolved, with the Super Eagles now fully focused on their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarterfinal clash against Algeria in Marrakech.

Nigeria will face Algeria on Saturday after the Desert Warriors edged DR Congo 1-0 after extra time in their round of 16 tie.

NFF plays down dressing-room tension

The incident between Osimhen and Lookman occurred during Nigeria’s 4-0 victory over Mozambique, when Osimhen confronted his teammate for not passing the ball to him in a promising position.

The episode drew widespread attention after Osimhen was seen angrily remonstrating with Lookman before asking to be substituted.

Reacting to the situation, Super Eagles Media Officer Promise Efoghe said the matter had been handled internally and should not distract from the team’s objectives.

“The primary reasons and aftermath of the on-the-field remonstration between two of our players during the game against Mozambique have been nipped internally,” Efoghe said. “Kindly ignore all reports that suggest otherwise.”

Mixed reactions within NFF

Sources within the camp revealed that there were differing opinions among NFF board members on how to address the incident.

While some officials reportedly pushed for disciplinary action against Osimhen, others, including NFF president Ibrahim Gusau, opted for a more conciliatory approach to restore unity.

A camp source said tensions eased after discussions with the players, adding that the squad reaffirmed its commitment to working together in pursuit of the AFCON title.

Lookman: ‘He is my brother’

Lookman also played down the episode, describing it as a heat-of-the-moment situation common in competitive football.

“The team won 4-0. Victor is our number one guy. Everybody knows this,” Lookman said. “There’s no issue. It’s just football… He is my brother.”

Focus shifts to Marrakech

The Super Eagles are scheduled to travel to Marrakech on Thursday to begin preparations for Saturday’s quarterfinal.

Efoghe also confirmed that forward Akor Adams, who briefly left camp to visit his hospitalised mother, has rejoined the squad.

“He only left the hotel briefly and returned before lunchtime,” Efoghe said, adding that the team held a recovery session with 26 players, while injured defender Ryan Alebiosu continues his rehabilitation.

Nigeria now turn full attention to Algeria, with unity and discipline high on the agenda as the tournament enters its decisive phase.