Ademola Lookman has dismissed concerns over a brief on-field exchange with Victor Osimhen during Nigeria’s emphatic 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Afrosport reports.
The Atalanta forward, who has starred for the Eagles at the ongoing tournament in Morocco, insisted the incident at the Fez Stadium should not overshadow the team’s performance.
The moment occurred in the 64th minute with the Super Eagles already in firm control at 3-0 and preparing to take a corner. Osimhen appeared visibly frustrated after his team-mates opted against passing to him in a previous attacking move.
The Galatasaray marksman screamed at left back Bruno Onyemaechi, with Lookman stepping in to douse the situation. Osimhen exchange some words with his strike partner, confronting him in the Mozambique box.
Shortly afterwards, the former African Player of the Year signalled to the bench and was replaced by Moses Simon. Osimhen then headed straight down the tunnel at the final whistle rather than joining his teammates for the post-match celebrations.
Speaking after the match, Lookman was quick to play down the incident, stressing that there was no issue between the two players and that the squad remains united.
“I have not seen him but I don’t really think that is important. The team won 4-0,” Lookman said. “Victor is my number one guy, everybody knows this. Top striker, top player so all of the rest is not important.”
Lookman, who was among the goalscorers on the night, scoring Nigeria’s opener and producing two assists, reiterated his respect for Osimhen. He underlined that the team’s focus remains firmly on their progress in the tournament as they continue their push for a fourth continental title.
