AFCON 2025: Mikel Obi Defends Osimhen’s ‘Warrior Spirit’ Following Heated Clash with Lookman
Former Nigeria captain Mikel Obi has defended Victor Osimhen following his public spat with teammate Ademola Lookman on Monday. Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel described the striker’s aggressive pursuit of a hat-trick as part of a “warrior spirit” essential for success. While fans criticized Osimhen for berating Lookman in the 63rd minute, Mikel argued that such on-pitch passion shows the players are “working hard” and caring about the result.
The tension between Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman peaked in the 63rd minute on Monday when Lookman opted not to pass to an unmarked Osimhen, who was hunting for a hat-trick. Despite Lookman having assisted Osimhen’s earlier brace, the Galatasaray forward was visibly irate, eventually demanding a substitution and being replaced by Moses Simon. Reviewing the footage, Mikel Obi praised the outburst as a sign of competitive hunger, labeling Osimhen a “fighter” who gives everything to get the best out of himself and the team.
While defending Victor Osimhen’s “warrior spirit,” Mikel Obi expressed disappointment with the striker’s conduct following the 63rd-minute confrontation. Speaking on his Obi One podcast, Mikel noted that while a striker’s frustration at missing a hat-trick is natural, Osimhen’s decision to stop working for the team and walk straight to the dressing room at full-time crossed a line. “No individual is bigger than the national team,” Mikel warned, emphasizing that while on-pitch arguments can drive excellence, players must reconcile and prioritize the collective once the whistle blows.
Looking ahead to the weekend, Mikel Obi stressed the importance of unity as the Super Eagles prepare to face Algeria in a blockbuster AFCON quarter-final. While acknowledging the tension between Osimhen and Lookman, Mikel commended Lookman’s calm post-match demeanor and called on the coaching staff to ensure the “warrior spirit” remains productive. He noted that the partnership between the two stars is vital if Nigeria is to overcome the North Africans and secure their first continental trophy since 2013.
