Osimhen vs Lookman: Why On-Pitch Emotions Should Not Divide the Super Eagles
Since the Nigeria vs Mozambique game, there have been many opinions and interpretations about the Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman moment. Fans have shared their views passionately, as expected in a football-loving country like ours, and all these reactions come from a place of care for the Super Eagles.
Naturally, opinions have been divided. Many Nigerians feel Osimhen should manage his temperament better, pointing to what they believe is a recurring pattern. Others feel he was justified in his reaction, arguing that Lookman should have released the ball when Osimhen called for it.
My own take is simple. Nothing that happened on that pitch was unusual in football. Absolutely nothing.
Osimhen is a fighter, a striker driven by intensity and a strong desire to be the best. Lookman, on the other hand, is also a proven performer. He has tasted being Africa’s best, succeeded in Europe, and is one of Nigeria’s most dangerous players. You do not expect a player of that level to panic or stop his run every time a teammate calls for the ball.
Calling Lookman selfish also does not add up. He currently has the highest number of assists at this AFCON. If that is selfishness, then we should be asking for more selfish players.
When a footballer works hard to create chances, scores goals, and still sets up teammates, it is normal for him to sometimes chase glory, especially when the result is already comfortable. Footballers are human. They have ego, hunger, and ambition. That is how greatness is built.
Anyone who truly understands football knows that players come with different characters and temperaments.
There is also an Osimhen many people forget. The one who presses defenders, fights for every loose ball, and puts his body on the line for the team. That same energy shows in how he talks. He may shout, gesture, or look angry, but shouting does not equal abuse. Some players insult you calmly with a smile, while others shout like thunder and mean no harm.
As long as Osimhen is not becoming physical and no teammate comes out to say he was abused, then there is no need to panic. That kind of character can be managed.
Let me confess something. If you see me at a stadium supporting my team, you might think I am ready to fight the referee, the opposition, and even the ball boys. I shout, jump, wave my hands, and try to unsettle the opponents. But once the match ends, I go home peacefully. That is passion, not violence.
As someone who has officiated football matches, I understand this very well. Coaches shout at referees all the time. I do not get angry because that is their job. Emotions are part of football. If it goes too far, you discipline it. When the match ends, a handshake clears everything. No grudges. No labels.
Football is played in 90 minutes of emotion and remembered through lifelong highlights.
That match has come and gone. The players will talk. One handshake, one laugh in the dressing room, and everything is fine again.
As we move into the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals, Nigeria needs both men. The calm brilliance of Lookman and the fiery hunger of Osimhen.
We do not need to over-slam our fighters. We need them to fight for us.
