Nigeria's Victor Osimhen Eyes Success at 2025 Africa Cup of Nations
Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen views the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) as a significant opportunity for him and his teammates to realize their dream of winning Africa's premier football tournament.
Osimhen was part of the Super Eagles team that lost to Ivory Coast in the final of the 2023 edition.
This year, the West African team faced another disappointment, falling to DR Congo in a penalty shootout during the playoff final for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their second consecutive absence from the global event.
Despite these setbacks, the 26-year-old forward emphasizes the importance of moving forward and focusing on the upcoming challenges as Nigeria aims for success in Afcon.
"I think penalties are a matter of luck," Osimhen told BBC Sport Africa. "Life happens; we just have to keep moving forward."
The Galatasaray striker is confident that the squad is already putting in the necessary work to advance further, with aspirations of returning to the final in Morocco and clinching their fourth Afcon title.
"I want to express my gratitude to the Super Eagles fans worldwide who have supported us through both our triumphs and challenges," he stated. "The Afcon is a chance for us to win back our fans and achieve our dream of winning the tournament."
Nigeria will kick off their Group C campaign against Tanzania in Fes on Tuesday at 17:30 GMT, followed by matches against Tunisia on Saturday and Uganda on December 30.
Building Mutual Respect Among Players
While Osimhen has been a pivotal player for Nigeria in recent years, the team has often struggled to secure goals and favorable results in his absence. He acknowledges the support and belief from Nigerian fans in his abilities and dedication to the national team.
With attacking talents like Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu, and Cyriel Dessers also in the squad, Osimhen is confident that any player called upon can rise to the occasion when needed.
"I always strive to give my all. We have many talented players in this squad," Osimhen said. "I'm just one of them. If some of us are unavailable, others can step up. That's one of our strengths."
Osimhen's significance to the Super Eagles has been evident during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. Nigeria failed to secure a single victory in the five matches he missed, highlighting his influence on the team's performance.
Head coach Eric Chelle hopes to keep his star striker fit and available as Nigeria seeks its first Afcon title since 2013.
"I aim to give everything because everyone knows that's how I play. I try to run, score goals, and fight for my teammates," Osimhen explained. "I appreciate my teammates for giving me the opportunity to score for them. They listen to me, and I listen to them; there's a mutual respect between us."
Calvin Bassey Reflects on Leadership Changes
Meanwhile, Nigeria defender Calvin Bassey expressed his sadness over William Troost-Ekong's international retirement prior to the finals. The former Super Eagles captain, who was named Most Valuable Player at the 2023 Afcon finals, had developed a strong partnership with Bassey in the center of defense.
"He [Ekong] was an incredible player, an amazing leader, and a good friend to me," Bassey told BBC Sport Africa. "Players come and go, but it’s about forming a cohesive group that can support each other."
Despite this change, Bassey believes the squad is in capable hands, praising Wilfred Ndidi as an "amazing" captain who can lead the team forward.
Bassey is expected to play a crucial role in Nigeria's title pursuit and believes the chemistry he shares with club teammates Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze will positively impact the Super Eagles.
"Alex and I have played together for a long time. We understand each other's strengths well," he noted. "Chukwueze has also played alongside us, so we hope to bring that chemistry to the national team."