Nigeria’s hotshot forward Victor Osimhen insists his focus is to help the Super Eagles clinch the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title despite nearly equalling legend Rashidi Yekini’s goalscoring record for the national team.
Osimhen scored the opening goal and turned provider for the second during their 2-0 win over Algeria in the quarter finals. Nigeria will now be playing Morocco in the semi-finals, as they eye triumph for the first time since 2013.
Yekini scored 37 goals for Nigeria and won the African Footballer of the Year in 1993.He is the third all time highest goalscorer in AFCON history with 13 goals. Osimhen has scored 35 goals for the Super Eagles, which puts him just two short of Yashidi
Speaking to the media following their win, Osimhen responded to a question on potentially breaking Yekini’s record.
“It doesn’t matter if I equal the record or I surpass it,” Osimhen stated boldly, while also giving former Manchester United and Watford striker Odion Ighalo his flowers.
“The late Rashidi Yekini is the greatest striker Nigeria has ever produced and for me, I have the likes of Odion Ighalo who have inspired me to do the best for my team.”
Osimhen paid homage to Yekini, insisting that, even if he does end up surpassing the former Olympiakos striker’s record, he remains an immortal legend for Nigeria.
“For me, it does not take anything away from Yekinin. I just want to do my best. It is amazing to be part of history for this country. I just want to win something important for my country and I think with the help of my teammates I am on that part.”
During the clash, Nigeria simply outclassed Algeria, and could have scored more than two goals. Osimhen showed a willingness to lead from the front both on and off the ball.
Explaining the reason behind his inspired performance, the former Napoli man insisted he was just “doing his job” in order to elevate the side.
“I tried to fight for the team and get goals and assists.I am happy to have contributed to both goals, but I won’t take the glory alone. The whole squad deserves hype and praise.”
Following their quarter final win, Nigeria will take on host nation Morocco in Rabat for the semis in what promises to be a fiery, high-stakes encounter.
Osimhen will be keen to guide the side to a second consecutive AFCON final. In 2023, he helped the side make the final, only to fall short to Ivory Coast.
