Victor Osimhen is on the verge of etching his name into Nigerian football folklore.
The forward is now two goals away from equalling Rashidi Yekini’s record of 37 goals for the Super Eagles after scoring in Nigeria’s win over Algeria at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
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The 27-year-old Galatasaray striker had scored 34 goals going into Saturday’s match.
He powered home from Bruno Onyemaechi’s cross to add to his national team goal tally as the dominant three-time African champions put the Desert Foxes to the sword at the Grand Stade de Marrakech.
Osimhen reached the milestone after 51 games for the 2023 champions.
Sevilla striker, Akor Adams, netted the other goal on the day as Nigeria romped into the semi-final of the continental showpiece, where they will take on hosts, Morocco.
However, the ex-Napoli striker is not bothered about breaking the record and has set his sights on helping Nigeria win another AFCON title.
“I have said countless times that it doesn’t matter if I equal or surpass the record,” Osimhen told reporters after the victory over Algeria.
“Rashidi Yekini is the best striker the Super Eagles have ever produced, and for me, I just try to do my best for the team,” he said.
“For me, I was involved in the game, reflecting on my experience in the previous Africa Cup of Nations. It’s not just about scoring decisive goals, but about how we influence the game and contribute to the victory—that’s what matters most in the national team.
“I always strive to improve myself, both mentally and physically,” Osimhen added.
In March, the Super Eagle overtook Segun Odegbami (23 goals) as Nigeria’s second all-time top scorer.
Osimhen is also in contention for the top scorer gong at the 2025 AFCON, having registered four goals, one behind Morocco’s Brahim Diaz.
Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman has three goals in the competition.
Meanwhile, with Saturday’s victory, the Super Eagles have now reached the last-four of the competition for the second time in a row.
They finished as runners-up in Cote d’Ivoire, losing 2-1 to the hosts.
Source: Channels TV
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