Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has declared that winning the Africa Cup of Nations for Nigeria is his sole ambition, downplaying the significance of chasing the national team's all-time scoring record. The Napoli forward made his statement after playing a pivotal role in Nigeria's commanding 2-0 victory over Algeria in the AFCON quarter-finals on Saturday, January 10, 2026, in Marrakesh.
Team Triumph Over Personal Milestone
Osimhen broke the deadlock just after half-time at the Grand Stadium, netting his 35th international goal in just 51 appearances. He later turned provider, setting up teammate Akor Adams for the second goal to seal Nigeria's place in the semi-finals. This performance leaves the 27-year-old just two goals shy of the legendary Rashidi Yekini's record of 37 goals for Nigeria.
When questioned about the looming record, Osimhen was emphatic in his response. "Not at all," he said, dismissing the idea that it was a focus. "I have said countless times that it doesn't matter if I equal or surpass the record. 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."
Driven by Collective Success
The masked striker, who has been in scintillating form with nine goals in his last eight games for Nigeria, emphasized that his motivation is purely collective. "It is amazing to be part of history for the Super Eagles so I just want to win something for my country," Osimhen stated. He added that his confidence stems from the team's cohesion, not personal statistics. "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."
Nigeria's victory sets up a highly anticipated semi-final clash against tournament hosts Morocco in Rabat next Wednesday. This city holds painful memories for the Super Eagles, as it was where their 2026 World Cup hopes ended in a penalty shoot-out defeat to DR Congo last November.
Super Eagles Soar Under Chelle
The response from the team since that World Cup qualifying disappointment has been remarkable. Under the guidance of coach Eric Chelle, Nigeria has won all five of their matches at this AFCON, scoring 14 goals in the process. Their dominance was clear against Algeria, where they created numerous first-half chances before converting their superiority into goals after the break.
Coach Chelle expressed satisfaction with his team's identity and performance. "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," the Malian-Egyptian tactician said. "We could have been 2-0 up at half-time. We were a bit more clinical in the second half... I am happy and the players are enjoying themselves. We just need to try to keep this positive dynamic going."
With Osimhen leading the line with a team-first mentality and a squad brimming with confidence, Nigeria now stands just two wins away from a fourth continental crown, a prize the star striker values far above any individual accolade.
