By Daily Sports Nigeria on December 24, 2025

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has dismissed suggestions that Nigeria’s national team depends solely on him, insisting the squad possesses enough quality to succeed regardless of which players feature, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The Galatasaray forward made this known ahead of Nigeria’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco, where the three-time champions will seek to end a 12-year trophy drought.

While Osimhen has been instrumental for Nigeria in recent years, the team has often struggled for goals and results in his absence, particularly during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign where Nigeria failed to register a single victory in the five matches he missed.

However, the prolific striker maintains that the Super Eagles have sufficient attacking depth to deliver when called upon.

“I just try to give my everything. We have so many talented players in this squad. I’m part of them. If we don’t see some of us, the others can also play. That’s one of the qualities,” Osimhen told BBC Africa.

With attacking options such as Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu and Cyriel Dessers also in the squad, Osimhen expressed confidence in his teammates’ ability to step up when it matters most.

The 26-year-old, widely regarded as Africa’s best centre-forward, acknowledged the support and belief Nigerians have in his commitment to the national team.

“I appreciate the love and support of Nigerians who believe in my ability and commitment to the national team,” he said.

Osimhen emphasised his work ethic and the mutual respect within the squad.

“I’m trying to give everything because everyone knows me like this. I try to run, get goals and fight for my teammates. I appreciate all my teammates for giving me this opportunity to try to get goals for them. They try to listen to me, and I also listen to them, it’s a mutual respect between us,” the forward said.

Head coach Eric Chelle will be hoping his talismanic striker can remain fit and available as Nigeria aim to claim a first AFCON title since 2013.

Osimhen had earlier apologised to Nigerians for the team’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing to DR Congo in the play-offs, promising the squad would use the AFCON as an opportunity to make amends.

Source Punch Ng

Posted December 24, 2025

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