Nigerian football fans have criticised Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen following an angry exchange with teammate Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Mozambique in the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16.
The incident occurred in the 63rd minute and was clearly captured on the live broadcast and post-match clips reviewed by this reporter. Osimhen was visibly upset after Lookman missed a scoring opportunity despite the Galatasaray striker being unmarked in the box.
At that point in the game, Lookman had already created two chances for Osimhen. One resulted in a direct assist, while the second came through Akor Adams, underlining the Atalanta winger’s positive contribution before the outburst.
Video footage shows Osimhen pulling away from captain Wilfred Ndidi before pointing angrily at Lookman. He then shouted at his teammate and was heard saying in Nigerian pidgin, “No try am again,” meaning “don’t try that again.”
Moments later, Osimhen requested to be substituted. As he left the pitch, sections of the crowd booed him, while Moses Simon came on in his place.
The incident quickly sparked reactions on social media platform X. Using trend-tracking tools and keyword monitoring, it was clear that Osimhen’s name dominated conversations shortly after the match ended.
Social media influencer Emma Ik Umeh (@emmaikumeh) criticised the striker’s behaviour, noting that Lookman had already assisted him earlier in the game. He described Osimhen’s reaction as unnecessary and frustrating.
Godwin Wilson labelled the episode “very silly behaviour,” while Oladapo Omolade questioned why Osimhen reacted angrily despite Nigeria’s comfortable lead.
Other fans were more direct. Victor Adeboje called the display “very irritating,” while Edwin Uka openly mocked the striker’s attitude during the incident.
Several users also questioned the timing of the outburst. ID (@oluwatunmilara1) asked why Osimhen would lose his temper when the team was winning and playing well.
Bigrated (@the_boy_rated) suggested that pride may have influenced the striker’s reaction, while Stanley Ogb (@stanogbo97) described the moment as unprofessional.
Despite the controversy, Osimhen had a strong outing, scoring twice in the match. Lookman also delivered an impressive performance, recording two assists and scoring once as Nigeria secured their fourth consecutive win at the tournament.
The Super Eagles will now face either Algeria or DR Congo in the quarter-finals as they continue their push for a first AFCON title since 2013.
