Super Eagles Victory Overshadowed by Striker’s Outburst, Prompting Urgent NFF Intervention
Nigeria’s commanding 4-0 Africa Cup of Nations victory over Mozambique has been overshadowed by a major internal crisis, with star striker Victor Osimhen threatening to leave the national team camp following a heated on-field confrontation with teammate Ademola Lookman.
The incident occurred during Monday’s match despite a brilliant attacking partnership that saw Lookman assist two of Osimhen’s goals. Tensions boiled over in the second half when Osimhen aggressively confronted Lookman over a perceived lack of service, with captain Wilfred Ndidi and even a Mozambique defender attempting to separate the pair.
Osimhen subsequently demanded to be substituted and, after the final whistle, reportedly stormed out of the stadium, declaring he was “done” with the Super Eagles. He later sat alone on the team bus while teammates celebrated in the dressing room.
“The fallout continued long after the final whistle,” the report described. “Those present described a striking absence of any attempt to calm or console the vice-captain.”
The crisis has triggered urgent intervention from senior Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) officials, including the federation president, who has personally attempted to mediate. The incident revives concerns about Osimhen’s temperament, reminiscent of his public clash with former coach Finidi George in 2024.
The timing is particularly delicate as Nigeria prepares for a quarterfinal clash. Lookman has been the team’s standout performer with seven goal contributions, while Osimhen sits just three goals shy of the national scoring record.
For now, Nigeria’s AFCON campaign hangs in an uneasy balance—dominant on the pitch but suddenly fractured within, as officials work to mend a rift that could define their tournament.
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