Chelle Clarifies Osimhen-Lookman Exchange at AFCON

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has played down reports of tension between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s AFCON match, insisting no intervention was needed on the touchline. The incident occurred during the group-stage game when the two forwards were seen exchanging words after a missed chance.

“I didn’t step in because it was a normal football moment,” Chelle said, explaining that both players were simply demanding more from each other. Osimhen later described it as “pure passion to win,” while Lookman added that “there’s no issue at all, we push each other.”

Nigeria went on to see out the match without further drama, with Chelle stressing the episode reflected the team’s competitive edge rather than internal problems as the Super Eagles continue their AFCON campaign.