Osimhen Prioritises AFCON Victory Over Yekini’s Goal Record

Victor Osimhen has emphatically stated that his focus remains solely on leading Nigeria to Africa Cup of Nations glory, rather than surpassing the national team’s all-time scoring record. His comments followed the Super Eagles’ impressive 2-0 victory over Algeria last Saturday, a match in which Osimhen opened the scoring.

The masked striker netted his 35th goal in 51 appearances for Nigeria, before assisting Akor Adams for the second, propelling the in-form Super Eagles into a semi-final clash against tournament hosts Morocco. Osimhen, 27, is now just two goals shy of equalling the late Rashidi Yekini’s record of 37 goals. Yekini was a key member of the 1994 AFCON-winning squad.

When questioned about the record, Osimhen responded, “Not at all. I have said countless times that it doesn’t matter if I equal or surpass the record.” The former Napoli star, who has been in prolific form with nine goals in his last eight international appearances, added, “Rashidi Yekini is the best striker the Super Eagles have ever produced and for me I just try to do my best for the team.

It is amazing to be part of history for the Super Eagles so I just want to win something for my country.”

With four goals in his last four AFCON matches, Osimhen expressed confidence in the squad: “I have so much confidence in the way I play with the help of my teammates, but for me it is not about the goals or assists, it is just about winning something with this squad. We are on the right path but it is not going to be easy.”

Nigeria will face Morocco in Rabat next Wednesday, a city where their World Cup aspirations were dashed in a penalty shootout defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo last November.

Their response to a second consecutive failed World Cup qualifying campaign has been remarkable, winning all five matches at this Cup of Nations and scoring 14 goals.

Malian coach, Eric Chelle, praised his team’s performance against Algeria. “I had a way of playing in mind when I took the job and I think we have an identity in this team now, both with the ball and without,” he stated. “We could have been 2-0 up at halftime. We were a bit more clinical in the second half, the final ball was a bit better. I am happy and the players are enjoying themselves. We just need to try to keep this positive dynamic going.”