By our reporter 8.1.2026
Super Eagles top striker Victor Osimhen was on the lips of most Nigerian soccer fans after he blew his tops during the round of 16 clash against Mozambique’s Black Mambas at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations.
Osimhen was seen remonstrating with his buddy Ademola Lookman and shortly after switched off and asked to be subbed of the game. Though the episode has been left behind, Osimhen felt he needed to explain to Nigerian fans who misconstrued his anger.
Speaking to Choice TV he stated: “When we did not qualify for the World Cup, everyone called just me out. They forgot about other players. That was when I understood the weight is on me.
“Yes, we scored three goals already but in football 5 goals can be scored in 3 minutes, that’s why we did not have to relax.
“The whole country is counting on us and if we fail, they’ll drag us everywhere especially me. I love Lookman, he is my brother, and he understands that was just football.
“Everyone wants Nigeria to win the AFCON, and it doesn’t come easy. We must do our best. “
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel had words of praise and advise for the Osimhen.
“One thing people need to understand about Victor is that he plays with his heart on his sleeve,” Mikel said.
“He’s a fighter, he plays like a warrior, and that’s what top teams need. He gives everything on the pitch, and that’s how he gets the best out of himself.
“But what I don’t like is the part where he stopped playing, running and making efforts. The part where he stood up after the game and walked straight into the dressing room. That part I didn’t like. Football is always about the team. No individual is bigger than the national team, and Victor knows that.”