Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has come to the defence of Victor Osimhen following the striker’s heated on-pitch confrontation with teammate Ademola Lookman during Nigeria’s 4–0 victory over Mozambique in the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Monday. Speaking on his Obi One podcast on Wednesday, Mikel described Osimhen’s reaction as a reflection of his “warrior spirit,” saying the Napoli forward plays with passion and intensity that should not be misinterpreted. He noted that Osimhen’s aggressive approach is part of the mentality required to succeed at the highest level.
The incident occurred after Lookman failed to pass to Osimhen in a promising move that could have completed the striker’s hat-trick, despite both of Osimhen’s earlier goals being assisted by Lookman. Osimhen, who was seen shouting and gesturing on the pitch, later demanded to be substituted and was booed by some fans as he left the field, heading straight down the tunnel after full-time. Mikel said he understood the striker’s frustration, adding that most forwards would react similarly after being denied a potential third goal, and praised Osimhen’s overall contribution to the team, both in attack and work rate.