AFCON Debate: Rigobert Song Claims Osimhen and Lookman Are Not World-Class

Former Cameroon captain Rigobert Song has sparked a major AFCON debate after publicly stating that Super Eagles stars Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman do not qualify as world-class players, a claim that has quickly drawn reactions from fans and football analysts across the continent.

In a short video circulated online by ESPN, Song was asked to give a yes-or-no response to the question, “Are these AFCON players world-class?” The exercise featured a list of some of Africa’s top footballers.

Song responded no when Osimhen and Lookman were mentioned, a stance that surprised many fans given both players’ recent impact for club and country. In contrast, he answered yes for several high-profile names, including Mohamed Salah, Riyad Mahrez, Achraf Hakimi, Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, Omar Marmoush, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Ronwen Williams, Wilfried Zaha, Patson Daka, Mbwana Samatta, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, and Brahim Diaz. He also rated himself as world-class.

Overall, 15 of the 18 players listed received Song’s approval, with only Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Yves Bissouma failing to make the cut. The omission has drawn attention, especially in light of Osimhen’s and Lookman’s strong performances and individual honors in recent seasons.