The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has brushed aside reports suggesting unrest within the Super Eagles squad following a brief confrontation between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during their AFCON match against Mozambique.
In a statement issued by team administrator Dayo Enebi Achor, the NFF rejected claims of internal discord, describing such reports as misleading. The clarification comes after Nigeria’s convincing 4–0 win over Mozambique’s Mambas on Monday night, a victory that sealed the three-time champions’ place in the quarter-finals of the 35th Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
During the encounter, television footage showed Osimhen exchanging words with Lookman shortly before a corner kick, a moment that sparked speculation across various media platforms. However, the NFF insisted the situation was misinterpreted and did not reflect any deeper issues within the team.
“There is absolutely no crisis in the camp,” Achor stated. “What was seen as a disagreement between two teammates was addressed and resolved within a few hours. The atmosphere remains positive, and the players are fully focused in training.”
The federation also refuted rumours that forward Jerome Akor Adams, who opened his AFCON goal account in the match, had walked away from the team camp.
“He was granted permission to visit his mother, who was receiving medical care here in Fès, and he returned to camp in under an hour,” Achor explained.
Lookman also moved to calm the situation, dismissing talk of a fallout with Osimhen and stressing that the team’s success takes precedence.
“I haven’t spoken with Victor Osimhen since the game, but the most important thing is that we won,” Lookman said after the match. “He’s a key player for us, and there’s no issue between us.”
The winger added that the team must maintain its focus on the AFCON campaign, urging unity and concentration as Nigeria continues its quest for continental glory despite missing out on qualification for the FIFA World Cup.
