As the Super Eagles touch down in Morocco for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), talismanic striker Victor Osimhen has sent a defiant message to his critics: personal accolades mean nothing without the weight of a gold medal around his neck.
The Galatasaray frontman, widely regarded as one of the most lethal finishers in world football, is prioritizing collective triumph over the pursuit of the Golden Boot. Following a 2023 campaign where he found the net only once, Osimhen is doubling down on his “team-first” philosophy as Nigeria prepares to kick off their quest for continental glory against Tanzania this Tuesday.
In an exclusive interview, the reigning African Player of the Year dismissed the notion that his low scoring output in the previous edition has placed him under undue pressure.
“To be honest, I don’t care about being the top scorer,” Osimhen stated. “I am a striker, I want to get as many goals and assists as I can… but for me, the success of the team is paramount. When the team wins the trophy, I am involved.”
Osimhen’s 2023 tournament was a masterclass in modern forward play—defined by tireless pressing and sacrificial running—even if the box scores didn’t reflect his impact. Reflecting on that run to the final, he noted that his contributions often went beyond the stat sheet, hindered by a bout of illness that sidelined him during the critical semifinal preparations against South Africa.
With a formidable supporting cast featuring the likes of Ademola Lookman, the Super Eagles arrive in Morocco with a “trophy or bust” mentality. For Osimhen, the math is simple: personal glory is hollow if the podium belongs to someone else.
The Strategy: High-intensity “hustle” and defensive work-rate from the front.
“If I try to get personal glory, it is not enough for me,” Osimhen added. “It is not what is paramount.”
As the Super Eagles prepare for their Tuesday opener, the message is clear: Nigeria’s brightest star isn’t hunting for a golden shoe—he’s hunting for the throne.
