The Nigerian Football Federation has denied reports claiming that Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, is set to leave the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations camp in Morocco following his on-field outburst at teammate Ademola Lookman.
A top NFF official made this known after the incident between both players during Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Mozambique in the round of 16.
The clarification was shared by FIFA and CAF-accredited journalist, Adepoju Samuel, who said he spoke directly with the official.
Samuel wrote on his X page on Tuesday, “A top team official just confirmed the latest situation over yesterday’s incident.
“The official said everything has been sorted since last night, and we are all good. There was no discussion about Osimhen leaving the tournament. The issue has been resolved as a family.”
Osimhen, who plays for Galatasaray, came under heavy criticism from Nigerian fans after he was seen angrily confronting Lookman in the 63rd minute of the match.
The incident happened after Lookman missed a chance despite Osimhen being in a good position to score. Earlier in the game, Lookman had already created two chances for Osimhen, including one that led directly to a goal and another through Akor Adams.
Video clips from the match showed Osimhen pulling away from captain Wilfred Ndidi before pointing at Lookman and shouting at him. He was also heard saying in pidgin, “No try am again,” meaning “do not try that again.”
Shortly after the exchange, Osimhen asked to be substituted and was booed by some fans as Moses Simon replaced him.
The moment sparked widespread debate on social media, with many fans questioning Osimhen’s attitude despite Nigeria’s comfortable victory.
However, signs of peace emerged on Tuesday when Lookman posted photos of himself with Osimhen and Bruno Onyemaechi from the match on his Instagram page.
He captioned the post, “TOGETHER ALWAYS”.
Both Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, and team captain, Wilfred Ndidi, have also played down reports of a serious misunderstanding between the two attackers.
They urged Nigerians to continue supporting the team as the Super Eagles prepare for their quarter-final clash against either Algeria or DR Congo.
