Victor Osimhen has dismissed discussions about breaking Rashidi Yekini’s long-standing goal record for Nigeria, insisting that his primary focus at the ongoing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is helping the Super Eagles win the trophy, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The Galatasaray striker edged closer to the historic milestone after scoring in Nigeria’s 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria on Saturday, a result that booked the team a place in the semifinals.
Osimhen now requires just three more goals to draw level with the late Yekini, who remains Nigeria’s all-time leading goalscorer. However, the 25-year-old forward was quick to distance himself from any personal ambition surrounding the record, instead paying glowing tribute to the former African Footballer of the Year, whom he described as Nigeria’s greatest-ever striker.
“Not at all. It doesn’t matter if I equal the record or surpass it,” Osimhen said while reacting to questions about the landmark. “Yekini is the best striker Nigeria has ever produced. I just want to win something for my country.”
The Napoli-born forward emphasized that collective success outweighs individual achievements, noting that the current Super Eagles squad is fully united in its pursuit of continental glory. According to Osimhen, personal milestones only matter if they come alongside team success.
“I’m happy that, together with my teammates, I’m on that path,” he added, highlighting the strong bond within the squad and their shared determination to lift the AFCON title.
Osimhen’s strike against Algeria once again underlined his importance to Nigeria’s campaign in Morocco, as the Super Eagles continue their push for a fourth Africa Cup of Nations crown with growing belief and momentum.
Oluwayemi Omolagba