‘Just Competitive Spirit’ — Ndidi Plays Down Osimhen, Lookman Touchline Dispute

Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has dismissed suggestions of a rift between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, saying their brief disagreement during Monday night’s match was driven purely by competitiveness.

Ndidi addressed the incident in an interview with ESPN following Nigeria’s 4–0 victory over Mozambique at AFCON 2025, explaining that the exchange reflected the players’ desire to push themselves and the team.

“It was just a competitive mindset. We wanted more, and that moment was made possible by two people who wanted more. That was what really happened at that moment,” Ndidi said.

He added that the matter was quickly resolved within the squad and that there was no bad blood.

“Everything is fine, and we have thrashed it out in the dressing room. We are in this together,” he said.

Lookman also downplayed the incident, stressing his respect for Osimhen and the unity within the Super Eagles camp.

“I have not seen Osimhen, but I don’t think that matters. Vic is our number one guy; everybody knows this. He’s a top striker. So, all of that doesn’t matter,” he said.

“It’s just football. It’s always football. He is my brother,” added the 2024 African Footballer of the Year.

The Super Eagles will next face the winner of the Algeria vs DR Congo encounter for a place in the semi-finals.

Opinion Nigeria News