Reports suggesting that Victor Osimhen was planning to leave the Super Eagles camp at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco have been shut down by a top official of the Nigerian Football Federation.
The rumours surfaced on Tuesday after claims circulated online that the striker had dropped his accreditation and was preparing to return to Turkey following an on-pitch confrontation during Nigeria’s last game. Some reports even alleged that Osimhen had declared he was done with the national team.
However, those claims were swiftly addressed after FIFA- and CAF-accredited journalist Adepoju Samuel spoke with a senior NFF official. According to the official, the issue had already been resolved internally and did not involve any discussion about Osimhen leaving the tournament.
Samuel shared the clarification on X, writing: “A top team official just confirmed the latest situation over yesterday’s incident. The official said everything has been sorted since last night, and we are all good. There was no discussion about Osimhen leaving the tournament. The issue has been resolved as a family.”
The controversy followed a moment in the 63rd minute of the match when Osimhen appeared visibly upset after Ademola Lookman failed to convert a chance. Lookman had earlier created two scoring opportunities for him. Broadcast footage showed Osimhen pulling away from captain Wilfred Ndidi, pointing at Lookman and shouting in pidgin, “No try am again.”
Osimhen later asked to be substituted and was replaced by Moses Simon, a decision that drew boos from some fans in the stands. The scene quickly sparked criticism online, with many questioning the striker’s conduct despite Nigeria’s strong performance.
In a bid to calm the situation, Lookman later posted photos on Instagram showing himself with Osimhen and Bruno Onyemaechi after the match, captioned, “Together always.”
Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle and captain Wilfred Ndidi have also dismissed suggestions of any serious disagreement within the squad, stressing that unity remains intact as the team prepares for its quarter-final clash against either Algeria or DR Congo.
