The Nigerian Football Federation has officially dismissed swirling rumours suggesting star striker Victor Osimhen was set to abandon the Super Eagles camp at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. This follows a heated on-field exchange between Osimhen and teammate Ademola Lookman during Nigeria's Round of 16 victory.
Clash and Clarification: What Happened on the Pitch
The incident that sparked the controversy took place during Nigeria's commanding 4-0 win over Mozambique on Monday. In the 63rd minute, after a missed scoring opportunity, cameras captured Osimhen in an animated state, visibly upset and shouting towards Lookman. The moment quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from fans across social media platforms.
However, team officials were swift to address the situation. A top NFF official, speaking through FIFA and CAF-accredited journalist Adepoju Samuel, confirmed that the matter was settled amicably. "Everything has been sorted since last night, and we are all good," the official stated. "There was no discussion about Osimhen leaving the tournament. The issue has been resolved as a family."
Super Eagles Present a United Front
In a clear display of unity, Ademola Lookman took to his Instagram to post pictures with Osimhen and defender Bruno Onyemaechi on the training pitch. He captioned the post simply but powerfully: "TOGETHER ALWAYS." This public gesture served to quell any lingering doubts about squad harmony.
Team Administrator Dayo Enebi Achor reinforced this message during a briefing on Tuesday evening. "There is no problem whatsoever in our camp," Achor asserted. "Whatever people saw as a crisis between two brothers was easily resolved a couple of hours later. All is good and we are presently at training."
Achor also used the opportunity to clarify another report, confirming that striker Jerome Akor Adams had not abandoned the camp. He explained that Adams had briefly left to visit his hospitalised mother in the city of Fès and returned to the squad within an hour.
Focus Shifts to Marrakech and Historic Pursuit
The entire focus of the camp is now firmly on the upcoming quarter-final. All 26 available players participated in Tuesday's training session at the Sardienne Complex, with young defender Ryan Alebiosu continuing his individual recovery program.
On the pitch, both players involved in the incident are in stellar form. Osimhen scored twice against Mozambique, taking his international tally to 34 goals in 50 appearances. He now sits just three goals away from equalling the legendary Rashidi Yekini's all-time national record of 37 goals. Lookman was also instrumental in the victory, contributing a goal and three assists.
The Super Eagles are scheduled to relocate to Marrakech on Thursday. They will face the winner of the match between Algeria and DR Congo on Saturday. The quarter-final kickoff is set for 5 PM local time as Nigeria continues its quest for a fourth AFCON title.
