The drums of Africa are beating louder. Stadiums in Morocco are preparing to roar, flags will wave, and millions of eyes will lock onto the pitch. In the middle of it all, one figure stands tall, chest out, ready to carry a nation’s hopes: Victor Osimhen.
AFCON 2025 is another chance for Nigeria to reclaim continental dominance. And for Osimhen, it’s the moment to transform from star striker into immortal legend.
Osimhen’s blockbuster move to Galatasaray has been nothing short of spectacular. In Turkey, he’s become the headline act, delivering goals in both domestic and European competitions.
Victor. Osimhen. That is all. ?? pic.twitter.com/Y8Ujn3QXTP
— Bet9ja: The home of #betBOOM! ? (@Bet9jaOfficial) December 8, 2025
Super Lig: 11 matches, 5 goals
Champions League: 3 matches, 6 goals
Cup Competitions: One appearance
Total (2025/26 so far): 22 matches, 19 goals, 1 assist
For the Super Eagles, Victor Osimhen is the heartbeat of the attack.
Caps: 46
Goals: 31
Goals per 90 minutes: 1.10 (19 goals in 1,545 minutes)
Shot accuracy: 50% (Overall accuracy across competitions)
Expected Goals (xG): 17.8 (combined Super Lig + Champions League models shows he’s outperforming xG)
xOVA (Expected Offensive Value Added): Top 10 across European forwards this season, reflecting his impact in build-up play and chance creation
Victor Osimhen is a high-intensity striker who thrives in transition and space. He often drifts wide to stretch defences, making it difficult for backlines to contain him. In Nigeria’s XI, he is the focal point of attack and targeted early with long balls or played in behind when possession turns over. A brace against Gabon in qualifiers edged him closer to Rashidi Yekini’s legendary 37-goal record. He is now Nigeria’s second-highest scorer of all time, and AFCON 2025 could be the moment he surpasses the greats.
What Sets Osimhen apart?
- Explosive acceleration that leaves defenders chasing shadows
- Aerial dominance – a menace on crosses and set pieces
- Relentless pressing that sets the tone for Nigeria’s defensive shape
- Clinical finishing with both feet and his head
- Leadership and charisma that inspire teammates and fans alike
Imperfections still in play
- Offside awareness: His eagerness often sees him flagged too early
- Link-up play: Can rush passes under pressure
- Composure: Still learning to reset quickly after missed chances
- First touch: Occasionally heavy when receiving with his back to goal
Osimhen has already conquered Serie A with Napoli and is dazzling in Turkey. Nevertheless, he knows greatness in Nigerian football is measured by AFCON triumphs.
“I want to win the AFCON with my country and write my own legacy,” Osimhen told reporters earlier this year. All the greats in Nigeria have a title to their name, and to be mentioned in that space, I must win it too.”
Whether he remains in Istanbul, returns to Italy, or one day heads to England, Osimhen’s club future will always be a headline. But right now, the only story that matters is AFCON 2025. Nigeria’s hopes rest on his shoulders and the continent is bracing for a striker at the peak of his powers.
