### Tensions Emerge in Super Eagles Camp: Osimhen and Lookman Clash During AFCON 2025 The ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 has seen the Nigerian national football team, the Super Eagles, facing internal strife following a heated on-pitch confrontation between star players Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman. This incident occurred during Nigeria's impressive 4-0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16. The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has since confirmed plans to address the situation and maintain team unity as they prepare for their upcoming quarter-final match against Algeria. The clash has sparked widespread media coverage and public debate regarding player conduct and team dynamics, with many fans expressing their disappointment in Osimhen's behavior during the match [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1691310-afcon-2025-nff-confirms-plans-super-eagles-lookman-osimhen-rift, https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1691330-angry-nigerians-blast-super-eagles-star-victor-osimhen-rift-ademola-lookman]. ### Breakdown of the Incident and Reactions 1. **The On-Field Clash**: - During the match against Mozambique, Osimhen was seen gesturing angrily towards Lookman, leading to speculation about a rift between the two players. This incident occurred shortly before a corner kick, raising concerns about team cohesion [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1691222-afcon-2025-nff-releases-statement-lookman-osimhen-heated-exchange]. 2. **Public and Media Response**: - Following the incident, Osimhen faced backlash from fans and analysts who criticized his conduct, labeling it as disrespectful. Many called for disciplinary action from the NFF [https://www.businessday.ng/sports/article/fans-slam-disrespectful-osimhen-after-on-field-outburst-with-lookman]. - Media personality Tacha defended Osimhen, suggesting that the incident was blown out of proportion and emphasizing the importance of team dynamics [https://www.tv360nigeria.com/tacha-defends-osimhen-after-on-pitch-clash-with-lookman-during-afcon-match]. 3. **NFF's Response**: - The NFF quickly moved to dismiss rumors of a rift, stating that the situation had been resolved and that the team was focused on their next match against Algeria [https://www.brandiconimage.com/2026/01/nff-dismisses-reports-of-rift-in-super.html]. - Captain Wilfred Ndidi and other teammates downplayed the incident, asserting that there was no lasting animosity between Osimhen and Lookman [https://punchng.com/afcon-2025-ndidi-downplays-osimhen-lookman-rift-says-everything-is-fine]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Match Performance**: - Nigeria's 4-0 victory over Mozambique showcased the team's strength, with Osimhen scoring twice, despite the controversy surrounding his behavior [https://www.sports247.ng/afcon-2025-osimhen-explains-his-heated-reaction-during-super-eagles-victory-over-mozambique]. - **Social Media Reactions**: - Lookman attempted to quell the rumors by posting a celebratory photo with Osimhen on social media, captioned "TOGETHER ALWAYS," which was interpreted as a sign of unity [https://abovewhispers.com/2026/01/07/no-bad-blood-lookmans-post-with-osimhen-calms-super-eagles-storm]. ### Conclusion: Moving Forward for the Super Eagles In summary, the Super Eagles are navigating a challenging moment following the on-pitch clash between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during their AFCON 2025 campaign. The NFF has taken steps to ensure team unity as they prepare for the quarter-finals against Algeria. 1. **Incident Overview**: The confrontation has drawn significant media attention and public criticism towards Osimhen. 2. **Team Response**: The NFF and teammates have publicly dismissed the notion of a rift, emphasizing a focus on upcoming matches. 3. **Future Outlook**: The Super Eagles aim to maintain their performance and cohesion as they advance in the tournament, with hopes of overcoming any internal conflicts [https://www.legit.ng/sports/football/1691310-afcon-2025-nff-confirms-plans-super-eagles-lookman-osimhen-rift, https://thenews-chronicle.com/super-eagles-close-ranks-as-osimhen-lookman-tension-eases-ahead-of-algeria-clash].