Former Super Eagles Media Officer, Toyin Ibitoye, has played down concerns over Victor Osimhen’s outburst at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, saying the Nigeria team is used to the striker’s behaviour and that it will not affect their campaign.
Osimhen clashed with teammate Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s 4–0 win over Mozambique in the AFCON round-of-16 on Monday. The Galatasaray striker was visibly angry after Lookman failed to pass the ball to him in a clear scoring position.
The 2023 African Player of the Year later asked to be substituted and walked straight into the tunnel at the final whistle, fuelling speculation about possible tension in the Super Eagles camp.
Reacting to the incident, Ibitoye said Osimhen’s attitude is well known within the team and should not be overblown.
“They are used to him. That’s Victor Osimhen for you. While he needs to be better managed, they are used to him. They see a lot of it in training,” Ibitoye said.
Speaking on Channels Television’s The Morning Brief, the former Super Eagles spokesman explained that such moments are common in competitive teams, especially during tournaments.
“We will manage the situation because we are in a tournament setting. You don’t want anything to disrupt the rhythm that the team has built,” he said.
“So they understand him, and I’m sure that issue has been sorted. This is not the first time in this tournament that it is happening.”
Ibitoye recalled Osimhen’s earlier confrontations during the competition, including arguments with match officials and opposition benches, noting that the striker’s intensity is part of his personality.
“But that’s Victor for you. It will be sorted, but that situation needs to be better managed,” he added.
Despite the spat, Osimhen and Lookman had started the match brightly, combining well in attack. Lookman provided the assist for Nigeria’s opening goal, and both players celebrated together before the disagreement later in the game.
Osimhen’s decision to skip post-match media duties and his reaction on the pitch drew criticism from fans on social media.
However, Ibitoye insisted there is no cause for alarm, stressing that the Super Eagles are familiar with internal arguments and banter among players.
“They are used to it, and I’m sure that issue will not be a problem at all for them,” he said.
Nigeria will face either Algeria or DR Congo in the quarter-finals as they continue their push for a fourth AFCON title.
