Victor Osimhen's Goal-Scoring Prowess Boosts Nigeria's AFCON 2025 Prospects

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Victor Osimhen's performance has been described as exceptional by his Nigeria teammate Frank Onyeka. Onyeka believes that opponents in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will find it challenging to handle Osimhen. Despite Nigeria's 2-1 loss to Ivory Coast in the 2023 final, Osimhen managed to score once during the tournament. His presence is seen as a psychological boost for Nigeria.

Osimhen is currently the second-highest goalscorer for Nigeria, with 31 goals in 45 matches. He needs just six more goals to match Rashidi Yekini's record of 37. In 2025 alone, he scored eight goals in seven games, marking his most successful year with the national team. Onyeka emphasised Osimhen's determination and ability to intimidate defenders.

The Opta supercomputer gives Nigeria a 7% chance of winning AFCON this year. They are ranked fifth behind Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, and Algeria. Throughout their ten AFCON appearances this century, Nigeria has finished third five times, been runners-up twice, and won once. However, they have missed several editions recently.

Nigeria's recent form without Osimhen has been concerning. During the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, they secured only four points from a possible 15 without him. In a crucial play-off against DR Congo, Nigeria lost 2-1 after Osimhen was substituted at half-time due to injury.

Onyeka acknowledged that losing Osimhen during the DR Congo match affected their performance. "Missing Victor going into the second half changed a bit," he admitted. A Congolese player also noted that Osimhen's absence allowed their defenders some relief and relaxation.

Nigeria will kick off their AFCON campaign against Tanzania on December 23. The team's success may heavily depend on Osimhen's availability and form throughout the tournament.

The Super Eagles' journey in AFCON will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. With Osimhen leading the charge, expectations are high despite recent challenges faced by the team without him.