Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman has played down the heated exchange that took place between him and Victor Osimhen during their victory over Mozambique on Monday.

The Galatasaray striker was visibly upset with Lookman during the second-half clash, expressing himself aggressively.

Despite captain Wilfred Ndidi's efforts to calm the situation, Osimhen brushed him off and approached Lookman, resulting in a heated faceoff on the pitch.

The incident led to Osimhen's withdrawal, with coach Eric Chelle showing his dissatisfaction with the substitution of Moses Simon for the Galatasaray player.

Speaking after the game, Lookman minimized the altercation despite growing concerns among fans and pundits.

"I haven't seen him yet. Nothing happened, just a discussion on the pitch. There is no big issue"

The Atalanta forward praised the team's progress since the tournament began.

"It's been great, the team is improving with every game. We scored four goals today, which is a positive sign for us," he added.

The 28-year-old has been in outstanding form for Nigeria, netting three goals and providing four assists at the AFCON.

Lookman acknowledged that the pressures and demands of representing Nigeria have helped him deliver impressive performances at the tournament.

"I get the opportunity to represent my country, and I know how much that means. So I try to channel that pressure and stay in good form," he said.

He also mentioned that the team will approach the quarterfinals with the same attitude and positive mindset, aiming to advance to the semifinals.

"The quarterfinals of the AFCON is something to look forward to. Another big battle awaits us and we need to be ready for the fight," he said. 

"Just the same mentality from the team. The same mentality to be on the front foot."

Nigeria will face the winners of the match between DR Congo and Algeria in the semifinals of the continental tournament. 

Adeyemi Adewale