Lookman Osimhen rift rumours dismissed as Ademola Lookman insists the AFCON incident was a normal on-pitch discussion

Super Eagles winger Ademola Lookman has dismissed reports of a rift with Victor Osimhen following Nigeria’s 4–0 victory over Mozambique at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

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The Lookman Osimhen rift speculation emerged after a brief on-pitch exchange between the two players during the round of 16 encounter.

Speaking after the match, Lookman described the incident as a routine football discussion driven by competitive instincts.

“Nothing happened. It was just a discussion on the pitch,” Lookman said during his post-match duties.

“It’s just football. It’s always football. He is my brother.”

The exchange occurred with Nigeria already leading 3–0.

Osimhen appeared frustrated after Lookman opted to take a shot instead of passing, despite the striker being in a promising position.

Osimhen was heard remonstrating on the pitch and pointing towards Lookman while saying, “It is a team game.”

The Galatasaray striker had already benefited from Lookman’s creativity earlier in the match.

Osimhen went on to score twice against the Mambas before being substituted.

At the final whistle, he headed straight down the tunnel, a moment that fuelled speculation on social media about possible tension within the squad.

The reaction triggered widespread debate, with some fans criticising Osimhen’s conduct despite the emphatic nature of the win.

On Tuesday, Lookman moved quickly to reinforce unity within the Super Eagles camp.

He shared photographs on Instagram showing himself alongside Osimhen and Bruno Onyemaechi on the pitch after the match.

The post carried the caption, “Together always,” which was widely seen as a clear response to the controversy.

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has also dismissed claims of discord, insisting the episode reflected the players’ shared hunger to win.

Nigeria dominated the contest against Mozambique.

Lookman opened the scoring before Osimhen struck twice, while Akor Adams completed the rout.

Lookman was named man of the match, earning his second such award of the tournament.

The winger currently leads the combined goals and assists chart with three goals and four assists in three matches.

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Nigeria, three-time African champions, are pushing for a fourth continental title as they seek to improve on their runners-up finish at the previous edition.