- Victor Osimhen, crowned African footballer of 2023, dreams of winning Afcon with Nigeria, considering it a pinnacle in his career
- Osimhen, Napoli’s star, embraces pressure, aiming high and remaining focused on achieving success for himself, club, and country
Victor Osimhen, the Serie A titleholder with Napoli and the crowned African footballer of the year in 2023, envisions a new pinnacle in his career – lifting the Cup of Nations with Nigeria at the ongoing Afcon tournament.
In Abidjan, where the Super Eagles are gearing up to face Ivory Coast in their second group game on Thursday, the 25-year-old striker shared his aspirations with AFP. Reflecting on his achievements with Napoli, Osimhen expressed that winning the Afcon would stand out as one of the best moments of his life.
“I have done that with Napoli, I have made history, but no matter what I do, no matter how many goals I have scored, to be able to win the Afcon, I would go a long way in my life but probably when I do that I am done,” he admitted.
The spotlight is naturally on Osimhen within the Nigerian squad, given his remarkable performance with Napoli, scoring 26 goals last season and leading them to their first Scudetto since 1990. Despite the immense pressure from Nigeria, home to over 220 million people, Osimhen confidently states that he can handle it.
“I have aimed high all my life, growing up, and this pressure comes naturally. I am the kind who doesn’t fold under pressure,” he affirmed, speaking at the Nigerian team hotel in Abidjan.
“As the pressure comes, I take it into my head to try to give my best and do well for myself. So far, I have been doing well for my club and country, which I feel is the most important thing.”
Having secured the African player prize, Osimhen described winning the award as a dream come true, a testament to the hard work, sweat, and tears he has invested. As he dreams of conquering the Afcon with the Super Eagles, Osimhen remains focused and determined, showcasing a relaxed demeanour amid the attention that comes with his achievements.
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