Victor Osimhen appears to have found the scoring touch that eluded him during Nigeria’s recent World Cup heartbreak, giving the Super Eagles renewed hope as they chase Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) glory in Morocco.
For many Nigerians, Osimhen’s missed chance late in the crucial November World Cup playoff against Gabon remains a painful memory. The striker, usually clinical in front of goal, somehow shot wide with only the goalkeeper to beat during the closing minutes in Rabat. Though he redeemed himself by scoring twice in extra time to secure a 2-1 win, Nigeria ultimately fell to the Democratic Republic of Congo in the subsequent penalty shootout, ruling them out of the North American World Cup for the second consecutive tournament.
Now, attention has shifted from past disappointments to a new opportunity for redemption. On Wednesday, Nigeria will return to Morocco’s capital to face the hosts and 2022 World Cup semi-finalists, Morocco, in the AFCON semi-finals — a match widely regarded as a showdown between Africa’s elite. Victory would not only mark revenge on the world stage but also keep alive Nigeria’s quest for a fourth continental title, following previous triumphs in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
The challenge is formidable. Morocco will enjoy the support of nearly 70,000 fans in Rabat, and the winner will likely face a stiff opponent in the final — either Senegal or Mohamed Salah’s Egypt. Yet, Nigeria’s performances over the past three weeks have been arguably the most impressive in the tournament. The Super Eagles have scored a tournament-high 14 goals in five matches, with Osimhen leading the charge.
In Saturday’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria in Marrakesh, Osimhen not only scored the opener but also assisted Akor Adams for the clinching goal, showcasing his lethal connection with fellow forwards. His current run of form contrasts sharply with his output at the last AFCON, where he struggled to find the net across seven matches despite being a constant threat.
“I think as a man and as a player, I’ve improved a lot,” Osimhen said after the quarter-final. “I always reflect on my past mistakes and work on how to improve.” His goal-scoring spree has seen him net four goals in the last four matches and nine in eight appearances since mid-October, leaving him just two shy of Rashidi Yekini’s national record of 37 goals.
Osimhen’s confidence is mirrored by his strong form at Galatasaray, where he has scored 12 goals in 16 league matches, including six in the UEFA Champions League. “Now 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,” he said.
Head coach Eric Chelle’s influence has also been pivotal. Since taking over a year ago, Nigeria has not lost a competitive match outside of that ill-fated World Cup penalty shootout. Despite off-field distractions, including disputes over bonuses, the team has maintained focus, with players like defender Semi Ajayi emphasizing the importance of peaking at the right time. “We have a lot of experience in the changing room. We have dealt with big situations and pressure before,” Ajayi said.
As Nigeria prepares to enter Morocco’s “lions’ den,” the combination of Osimhen’s lethal finishing, a confident squad, and steady leadership has given fans reason to believe that the Super Eagles can turn past disappointments into continental triumph. Victory in Rabat would not just be a win — it would be a statement that Nigeria remains a powerhouse in African football.
Comments are closed.