As Nigeria’s Super Eagles prepare to begin their AFCON 2025 campaign, striker Victor Osimhen has addressed the growing comparisons between himself and legendary Nigerian forward Rashidi Yekini.
Nigeria will start its tournament journey with a Group C encounter against Tanzania, scheduled to take place in the evening as the team looks to make a strong opening statement in the competition.
In recent weeks, conversations about Osimhen’s place in Nigerian football history have intensified. The Galatasaray striker is closing in on Yekini’s long-standing national scoring record, needing only a handful of goals to match or surpass the milestone.
However, the 2023 CAF Player of the Year has made it clear that breaking records is not his primary focus.
In an interview with Pooja Media, Osimhen explained that he rarely pays attention to statistical milestones, saying his priority has always been contributing to the team through goals, assists and overall effort on the pitch.
He also emphasized that even if he eventually overtakes the late Yekini’s goal tally, it would never diminish the legacy of the man widely regarded as Nigeria’s greatest striker.
For Osimhen, simply being mentioned in the same conversation as Yekini is already a privilege and a reminder of the responsibility that comes with wearing the national jersey.
The former Napoli forward acknowledged that Yekini’s achievements—especially scoring Nigeria’s first goal at a FIFA World Cup—cemented his place as one of the most iconic figures in the country’s football history.
While praise continues to surround Osimhen’s performances, including suggestions that he could become Nigeria’s greatest player, the striker insists his focus remains on collective success.
Teammate Cyriel Dessers recently expressed confidence in Osimhen’s ability to reach historic heights in Nigerian football, but the striker prefers to shift attention back to the team.
He stressed that the Super Eagles possess a talented group of players capable of influencing games together rather than relying on a single individual.
According to Osimhen, everyone in the squad has a role to play, whether it involves scoring goals, creating chances, or helping defensively when the team is under pressure.
With Nigeria returning to major continental competition after missing the last FIFA World Cup, the striker also highlighted the importance of giving maximum effort throughout the tournament.
He expressed confidence that the squad’s unity and quality would allow them to support each other effectively on the field.
Nigeria will begin their campaign at the Complexe Sportif de Fès, hoping to start strongly in Group C as they pursue another continental title.
Commentary and Analysis
Osimhen’s comments reflect the mindset of a player who understands both the pressure and prestige associated with representing Nigeria at the highest level.
Comparisons with legends such as Rashidi Yekini are inevitable whenever a striker begins approaching historical scoring records. Yet Osimhen’s response shows a deliberate effort to balance personal ambition with respect for football history.
His emphasis on teamwork also mirrors the approach many successful international teams adopt during major tournaments.
For the Super Eagles, the presence of a prolific striker like Osimhen provides a valuable attacking advantage. However, success at AFCON will ultimately depend on the entire squad working together.
If Nigeria manages to combine individual talent with strong team cohesion, the Super Eagles could once again emerge as serious contenders for the continental crown.
© 2025 Gossip News Now, a division of CHIEJOS HARBIAN DIGITAL MEDIA LTD. Contact us via admin@gossipnewsnow.online
