Osimhen’s Unruly Behaviour
By Shammah
Credit where it’s due, Victor Osimhen’s brace was decisive tonight, and his finishing once again underlined his quality as a top striker.
However, beyond the goals, his attitude left a lot to be desired, and it deserves to be addressed honestly.
His visible frustration and repeated gestures asking to be substituted were unnecessary, especially in a game where the team was in control.
What was more concerning was how he reacted to his teammates’ attempts to calm him down, brushing them off and shutting them out.
That kind of behavior reflects poor emotional control and falls well short of the standards expected from a senior figure and supposed leader in the squad.
Yes, he scored twice but those goals were the product of collective effort. The build-up play, the assists, the movement, and the sacrifice from his teammates all played a role.
Football is not an individual sport, and without the team functioning around him, those goals don’t happen.
No player, regardless of status, is bigger than the team.
His decision to walk straight down the tunnel at full-time, rather than stay with the group, was also disappointing.
Actions like that do not go unnoticed, they affect dressing-room harmony, morale, and the sense of unity the Super Eagles are trying to build. Several players and members of the technical crew clearly picked up on the negative body language.
Head coach Eric Chelle needs to address this firmly and decisively.
Discipline is not punishment, it’s about maintaining standards, protecting team chemistry, and ensuring no individual disrupts the collective rhythm.
This kind of conduct, if left unchecked, can quietly damage a squad from within.
The Super Eagles are not a one-man show. This team is filled with talent, and success comes from shared responsibility, mutual respect, and collective belief. One player having an off moment does not diminish the contributions or performances of others.
Osimhen must mature, manage his emotions better, and lead by example, not just with goals, but with attitude, humility, and unity.
Passion is good, but arrogance, sulking, and stubbornness have no place in a team chasing greatness.
He owes his teammates and coach an apology for his behavior before and after the game.
By Shammah
