Osimhen outburst sparks buzz, but Lookman, Simon insist Eagles united

Super Eagles forwards Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon have moved quickly to quash speculation of unrest in the Nigerian camp after Victor Osimhen’s moment of frustration during the team’s commanding 4–0 victory over Mozambique at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Osimhen, who netted twice in the round-of-16 clash at the Fes Sports Complex, was visibly upset after Lookman failed to release a pass in a promising attacking move. The incident, which occurred before the striker was substituted in the 70th minute, briefly drew attention on and off the pitch.

Speaking after the match, Lookman insisted the reaction was a reflection of Osimhen’s winning mentality rather than any internal disagreement.

“Victor is our number one guy,” Lookman said. “He’s a top striker and extremely important to the team. These things happen during games, but they don’t affect our unity.

“I play for the badge and for my teammates. Whether it’s a goal or an assist, the team always comes first. Victor’s hunger is what drives us.”

Lookman added that the Super Eagles remain focused on their objective at the tournament and are not distracted by isolated moments during matches.

Moses Simon also dismissed suggestions of a rift, saying he saw nothing out of the ordinary.

“I didn’t really see anything,” Simon said. “Some people say he did something bad, but we are one team. There is nothing to talk about.

“He’s a fighter and he always fights for us. We need him and he needs us too. We will keep going together.”

Osimhen has now contributed three goals and three assists at the tournament, while Lookman leads Nigeria’s attacking chart with three goals and four assists, underscoring the Super Eagles’ depth and togetherness as they continue their AFCON campaign.

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