Fès, Morocco, January 7, 2026 – The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has firmly dismissed reports of unrest in the Super Eagles camp following a heated on-pitch exchange between star forwards Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during Nigeria's dominant 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16 at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The incident, which occurred in the second half of the match on January 5, 2026, has been described by officials as a minor issue quickly resolved, with the team maintaining full focus on their quarter-final ambitions.
In an official statement released through Team Administrator Dayo Enebi Achor, the NFF addressed widespread media speculation, stating: “There is no problem whatsoever in our camp. 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.” The federation emphasized that the confrontation had sparked “conjectures of various complexions in the legacy and digital media” but insisted it was overblown and settled internally as a “family matter.”
The tense moment unfolded in the 63rd minute, with Nigeria already leading 3-0. Osimhen, who was chasing a hat-trick after scoring twice, appeared frustrated and confronted Lookman and defender Bruno Onyemaechi just before a corner kick, gesturing animatedly over a perceived lack of service or positioning. Video footage of the exchange went viral, drawing criticism from some fans and analysts who called Osimhen's reaction immature given the comfortable scoreline. Osimhen was later substituted and stormed down the tunnel at full-time, further fueling rumors.
Ademola Lookman, the Atalanta winger who opened the scoring in the 20th minute and provided assists, played down the incident in post-match interviews. “He is my brother,” Lookman told reporters, adding, “I haven’t talked to Victor Osimhen since the game, but what matters is that we won. He is a top player and very important to the team. For me, there is no big issue.” Lookman, named the 2024 CAF Men's Player of the Year, also referred to Osimhen as “our No.1 guy” and stressed team unity, saying the focus remains on the tournament despite Nigeria's recent failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The match itself showcased Nigeria's attacking prowess, with goals from Lookman (20'), Osimhen (25', 47'), and substitute Jerome Akor Adams (70'), who netted his maiden AFCON goal. The comprehensive win propelled the three-time champions into the quarter-finals of the 35th AFCON edition, hosted by Morocco, where they are set to face a strong opponent in the next round.
Administrator Achor also addressed separate reports suggesting that Akor Adams had abandoned the camp after the game. “He took permission to go and see his mother who was hospitalized here in Fès, and returned in less than an hour,” Achor clarified, quashing any notions of discord or unauthorized absence. The Montpellier forward's brief departure was on compassionate grounds, and he remains fully committed to the squad.
Former players and pundits have offered mixed reactions to the Osimhen-Lookman spat. Some, like ex-internationals, called for disciplinary measures to maintain team discipline, while others viewed it as passionate in-game emotion common in high-stakes football. Media officer Toyin Ibitoye echoed the NFF's stance, stating the incident “won't disrupt Super Eagles' rhythm at AFCON 2025.”
The Super Eagles, under coach Augustine Eguavoen (interim), have shown resilience in Morocco despite a challenging World Cup qualifying campaign that saw them miss out on 2026 qualification. The team topped their group before the emphatic knockout win, signaling a strong bid for a fourth continental title. Players like Wilfred Ndidi have also weighed in, addressing the spat positively in media sessions.
As preparations intensify for the quarter-finals, the squad is relocating from Fès to Marrakesh. The NFF has urged fans and media to support the team without amplifying minor issues, highlighting the players' professionalism in resolving matters internally.
This episode underscores the intense pressure on Nigeria's star-studded attack, featuring Ballon d'Or nominee Osimhen and reigning African Player of the Year Lookman. Their partnership has been key to the team's success, with both contributing goals and assists throughout the tournament.
Public sentiment on social media remains largely supportive, with many fans praising the quick resolution and calling for focus on lifting the trophy. The incident has not appeared to affect morale, as evidenced by training sessions proceeding normally.
Nigeria's journey in AFCON 2025 continues amid high expectations, with the Super Eagles among the favorites in a competitive field that includes hosts Morocco, defending champions, and other powerhouses.
The federation's proactive statement reflects efforts to maintain a positive narrative around the team, ensuring distractions do not derail their quest for glory in Morocco.
