Tensions boil over after on-field clash in Morocco
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has reportedly threatened to quit the national team camp and return to Galatasaray following a heated altercation with teammate Ademola Lookman.
The incident occurred on Monday, January 5, 2026, during Nigeria’s dominant 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the AFCON 2025 round of 16. Despite scoring a brace in the match, the 27-year-old forward was left fuming in the 64th minute when Lookman opted for a solo effort rather than passing to him in the penalty area.
Witnesses and television footage captured the Galatasaray star berating both Lookman and defender Bruno Onyemaechi for perceived tactical errors. The situation escalated rapidly as Osimhen gestured to the bench, demanding to be substituted. Head coach Eric Chelle eventually replaced the striker with Moses Simon in the 68th minute, a move that was met with boos from sections of the Nigerian fans at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
Sources within the camp revealed that Osimhen’s anger did not subside after leaving the pitch. He reportedly skipped the team’s post-match huddle and was the first player to exit the dressing room, allegedly dropping his accreditation card and declaring that he was “done” with the tournament. Senior officials from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) have spent the last 24 hours attempting to pacify the striker to prevent a premature departure before the quarter-finals.
Super Eagles leadership attempts to douse the fire
The Super Eagles hierarchy has moved quickly to manage the fallout from the outburst, emphasizing the competitive nature of the squad. Captain Wilfred Ndidi played down the significance of the row, describing it as a “really competitive attitude” that stems from a collective desire to achieve more. Ndidi insisted that the disagreement was settled in the dressing room and that the team remains focused on their upcoming match in Marrakech.
Ademola Lookman, who was named Man of the Match for his stellar performance, also spoke out in defense of his striking partner. He described Osimhen as his “brother” and the team’s “number one guy,” stating that such minor frictions are common in high-pressure football environments. Lookman noted that the most important factor was the 4-0 scoreline and the team’s progression to the next stage of the competition.
However, head coach Eric Chelle provided a more stern response during his post-match briefing. While he acknowledged the players’ passion, he hinted at potential internal disciplinary measures to maintain camp harmony. “What happened on the pitch will stay in the group,” Chelle remarked, adding that he would handle the matter privately to ensure it does not distract from their ultimate goal of winning the AFCON trophy.
Social media divided over “disrespectful” conduct
The news of Osimhen’s threat to “dump” the team has triggered a massive debate among Nigerian football enthusiasts on social media. While some fans defend his “hunger and fire,” others have labeled his behavior as “unprofessional” and “disrespectful” to his teammates. Critics pointed to his previous social media outburst against former coach Finidi George as evidence of a recurring temperament issue.
Commentators have warned that such public displays of frustration could create “fear and distrust” within the squad, potentially stifling the creativity of other players like Akor Adams. Some analysts suggested that the striker’s ego has been inflated by his recent goal-scoring record, noting that he is now just three goals away from equalling Rashidi Yekini’s historic 37-goal mark. They argue that records should never come at the expense of team unity.
| Osimhen’s AFCON 2025 Stats | Performance Metric |
| Goals Scored | 3 |
| Assists Provided | 3 |
| Appearances | 4 |
| Minutes Played | 291 |
As the Super Eagles prepare to travel to Marrakech on Thursday for their quarter-final clash against either Algeria or DR Congo, all eyes are on whether Osimhen will be in the starting lineup. The NFF is expected to issue a formal statement to reassure the public that the “Lethal Finisher” remains committed to the national cause. For now, the “Gold Quest” in Morocco continues, though the atmosphere in the camp remains noticeably tense.
