Peseiro Weighs In on Lookman vs Osimhen Debate for Super Eagles Influence
Former Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has provided his expert analysis on the performances of Nigerian football stars Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen, sparking discussion about who holds the title of the national team's most influential player. The Portuguese tactician, who previously managed Nigeria's senior men's football team, offered insights into both players' contributions during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations and their subsequent club careers.
Outstanding AFCON 2025 Performances
During the 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco, both Lookman and Osimhen delivered exceptional performances that earned them recognition across the continent. Statistical analysis reveals that Osimhen registered four goals and three assists throughout the tournament, while Lookman recorded three goals and four assists. Their combined efforts resulted in seven total goals for the Super Eagles at the continental championship.
Both athletes secured coveted spots in the CAF Team of the Tournament, as reported by beIN SPORTS, highlighting their individual excellence and collective impact on Nigeria's campaign. The tournament showcased their complementary playing styles, with Osimhen operating as a traditional center-forward and Lookman excelling in wide attacking positions.
Post-AFCON Club Transitions and Success
Following their impressive showings at AFCON 2025, both players embarked on significant career moves. Ademola Lookman completed a transfer to Spanish giants Atletico Madrid from Italian club Atalanta, where he had spent three and a half productive seasons. During his tenure in Italy, Lookman played a pivotal role in Atalanta's 2023/24 UEFA Europa League triumph, famously scoring a hat-trick in the final against Bayer Leverkusen.
Meanwhile, Victor Osimhen continued his goal-scoring exploits in the Turkish Super Lig with Galatasaray during the 2024/25 season. The striker led his club to a domestic double while finishing as the league's top scorer, demonstrating his consistent ability to find the back of the net against various defensive systems.
Peseiro's Comparative Analysis
In an interview with Marca, the 66-year-old Portuguese coach offered his perspective on the two Nigerian stars. Peseiro emphasized that while Osimhen traditionally receives more attention as the team's primary striker, Lookman's contributions should not be undervalued. The former Super Eagles manager noted that Lookman has accumulated six goals and five assists across 13 appearances in two separate AFCON tournaments since breaking into the national team setup.
"Osimhen was the star, but Lookman was not behind him. In fact, he has scored more goals. Now they are both key figures," Peseiro stated. He further elaborated on Lookman's temperament and playing style, adding, "Lookman does not act like a star; he is very easy to manage. You just have to give him freedom."
The Al-Ula manager stressed that Lookman performs at his optimal level when granted creative freedom on the pitch, describing him as a player who thrives when allowed to express himself naturally within the team's tactical framework.
Immediate Impact at New Clubs
Ademola Lookman made an instant impression at his new club Atletico Madrid, breaking a unique record during their Copa del Rey quarter-final clash against Real Betis on February 5. The 28-year-old winger inspired Los Rojiblancos to a commanding 5-0 victory at the Estadio de la Cartuja in Sevilla, contributing both a goal and an assist in his debut appearance for the Spanish side.
This performance marked Lookman as the first Atletico Madrid debutant since the 2013/14 season to both score and provide an assist in a competitive match, signaling his seamless adaptation to Diego Simeone's system and the demands of Spanish football.
Potential Nigerian Strike Partnership at Club Level
Reports suggest that Atletico Madrid is considering a bold strategic move to pair both Nigerian stars at the club level. The Spanish giants are reportedly plotting a blockbuster transfer for Victor Osimhen, envisioning a devastating Nigerian strike partnership that would feature both Super Eagles attackers leading their offensive line.
This potential move would see Osimhen potentially replacing underperforming Julian Alvarez as the central focal point of Atletico's attack, while Lookman would continue to operate in wide areas, creating what could become one of European football's most formidable attacking duos.
The discussion surrounding Lookman and Osimhen's relative influence continues to engage Nigerian football enthusiasts, with Peseiro's analysis providing valuable perspective from someone intimately familiar with both players' capabilities within the national team structure. As both athletes continue to excel at their respective clubs, their performances will undoubtedly shape future conversations about Nigeria's footballing hierarchy and tactical approach.
