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AFCON Drama: Osimhen Threatens to Quit Nigeria Camp After Lookman Clash

Published by admin on January 6th, 2026.

AFCON Drama: Osimhen Threatens to Quit Nigeria Camp After Lookman Clash

Nigeria’s 4–0 thrashing of Mozambique to secure a spot in the AFCON quarter-finals was marred by off-field tension, as Victor Osimhen reportedly threatened to leave the national team following a heated on-pitch exchange with Ademola Lookman.

The Super Eagles showcased one of their most commanding performances of the tournament, bouncing back strongly after missing out on a second consecutive World Cup. Goals flowed freely, confidence was high, and a quarter-final showdown with either Algeria or DR Congo now awaits.

However, celebrations were overshadowed by a visible clash between Osimhen and Lookman. The tension came despite moments of synergy. In the 25th minute, Alex Iwobi’s precise pass found Lookman, who squared for Osimhen to score. Both players celebrated together with Bruno Onyemaechi. Shortly after the break, Lookman again assisted Osimhen, sparking another on-field celebration.

The mood changed when Osimhen became frustrated after several attacks broke down. When Lookman opted to dribble in a promising position instead of passing, and teammates Onyemaechi and Akor Adams did not spot Osimhen unmarked in the box, the Napoli striker’s irritation boiled over.

As Lookman prepared to take a corner, Osimhen confronted him aggressively. Captain Wilfred Ndidi tried to intervene, but Osimhen pushed him away. In a surprising turn, Mozambique defender Reinildo had to step in to separate the players. Osimhen then signaled to the bench for a substitution and was replaced by Moses Simon, even with Nigeria leading 3–0.

The drama continued after the final whistle. Osimhen walked off the pitch early, skipped post-match celebrations, and left the dressing room to sit alone on the team bus, while teammates stayed behind for media duties. Reports indicate he subsequently dropped his accreditation and declared he was “done” with the national team, intending to return to Turkey. Nigerian Football Federation officials moved quickly to calm the striker, though some suggested giving him space to cool down.

This incident raises fresh concerns about Osimhen’s temperament. He had previously clashed publicly with former coach Finidi George on social media in June 2024, but this confrontation is considered more serious by insiders.

The timing is sensitive, as Lookman has been Nigeria’s standout performer at this AFCON, contributing seven direct goal involvements (three goals and four assists). Osimhen, while adored by fans and just three goals shy of Rashidi Yekini’s all-time national record, appeared increasingly frustrated during the match.

While Nigeria advances confidently on the field, the Super Eagles now face an off-field challenge, with their star striker reportedly threatening to step away from the national team badge.