ABIDJAN, Ivory Coast – Newly crowned African Player of the Year, Victor Osimhen, has set his sights on leading Nigeria to Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) glory to alleviate the pain suffered by Nigerian supporters following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2022 World Cup.
Osimhen, who plays for Napoli, is eager to bring joy to the fans after being named the best player on the continent last month.
The 24-year-old forward, who once sold newspapers and water bottles on the streets of Lagos, expressed his disappointment over Nigeria’s failure to qualify for the World Cup during a crucial match against Ghana in March 2022.
Despite the overwhelming support from fans in Abuja, the Super Eagles were held to a 1-1 draw, leading to Ghana’s qualification on away goals.
Reflecting on the heartbreak, Osimhen said, “We could not have asked for more from our supporters in Abuja that night. They roared us on from the first whistle to the last. The noise they created was deafening, but we let them down and that hurt. Nigerians deserved better.”
Now, Osimhen believes winning the AFCON title is the perfect remedy for the lingering pain.
Nigeria has won the tournament three times before, in 1980, 1994, and 2013.
The Super Eagles are determined to add a fourth title to their trophy cabinet, with Osimhen emphasising the team’s capability to clinch victory.
“We are capable of winning this tournament because the squad is packed with players who are performing exceptionally well for their European clubs,” Osimhen stated.
“All of us are desperate to make up for failing to reach the 2022 World Cup. The only way we can achieve that goal is by winning the Cup of Nations.”
Nigeria is placed in Group A alongside Ivory Coast, Guinea-Bissau, and Equatorial Guinea.
The Super Eagles are expected to compete with Ivory Coast for the top spot in the group.
The tournament’s format ensures that the top two teams from each group, along with the four best-ranked third-placed teams, advance to the knockout stage.
Ivory Coast, considered strong contenders, is aiming for a third AFCON title.
The hosts are relying on the support of their nation, with coach Jean-Louis Gasset acknowledging it as “an incredible asset.”
Equatorial Guinea, known for their workmanlike approach, has reached the knockout stage in all three previous appearances, while Guinea-Bissau seeks its first AFCON finals victory.
The tournament promises excitement and intense competition as teams vie for continental glory.
