AFCON 2025 – Nigeria: Victor Osimhen explains his falling-out with Ademola Lookman
He was heavily criticized after his altercation with Ademola Lookman against Mozambique, and Victor Osimhen spoke up to own his status, defend the team’s unity, and remind everyone of the standard that drives him in service of Nigeria.
Very anticipated after the controversy sparked by his clash with Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen spoke up to calm things down. The Super Eagles’ forward, at the heart of the debates after Nigeria’s 4-0 thrashing of Mozambique in the Round of 16 of AFCON 2025, wanted to put things in perspective.
Targeted on social media, the former Lille striker reminded of the weight of the responsibility that has weighed on his shoulders since Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the last World Cup. In his view, that episode strengthened his sense of being front and center at every setback.
“When we failed to qualify for the World Cup, everyone pointed the finger at me, forgetting the other players. It was then that I understood that the weight rested on my shoulders.”, Osimhen said in remarks relayed by Africatopsports.
On the pitch, Osimhen also explains his demand, even when the score seems settled. In his view, no let-up is permitted at this level of competition, as comebacks are part of football history. The collective, concentration, and respect for the game remain absolute priorities.
“Yes, we had already scored three goals, but in football, five goals can be conceded in three minutes. That’s why we must never let our guard down. The whole country is counting on us, and if we fail, I’ll be the first to be singled out.”, he added.
Regarding Ademola Lookman, the forward dismissed any notion of a fracture. He stressed the brotherly bond between the two men and their shared objective: to lead Nigeria to continental glory. Under intense public pressure, Osimhen assures that the squad remains tight-knit and fully committed to going all the way in this AFCON.
“I appreciate Lookman, he’s my brother, and he understands that it was just football. Everyone wants Nigeria to win AFCON, and it’s never easy. We must give our best.”, he concluded. End of the controversy?
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