Osimhen: 'We are going to war!'

The Nigeria national team opens its campaign at this year’s AFCON with a Group C clash against Tanzania, and it is clear that the Nigerians will be heavy favorites to collect their first points. The Super Eagles’ main man is certainly the experienced striker of Turkish champions Galatasaray, Victor Osimhen. He will lead this team in their attempt to finally reach the top of African football. The tournament in Morocco will be an opportunity for Nigeria to make amends for past shortcomings, above all from 2023, when they fell at the final hurdle, losing the final to Ivory Coast. They are also eager to redeem themselves with the fans after the recent failure in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the penalty shootout defeat to DR Congo, which means we will not see them at next summer’s tournament in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

“Penalties are a matter of luck. Last month was disappointing; it didn’t go the way we had hoped. That’s how it happened—we have to move on, even though the memories will remain unpleasant. I want to thank Nigerian fans all over the world for being with us through good and bad times. AFCON is an opportunity for us to repay them and fulfill our dreams of winning the tournament” Osimhen said.

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So far he has been very successful in the national team shirt, scoring 31 goals in 45 appearances. In 2025 he has been excellent, finding the net eight times in seven matches. Head coach Eric Chelle will also be able to rely in attack on Akor Adams, Paul Onuachu and Cyriel Dessers, and Osimhen believes they have enough weapons to reach the very top.

“I always try to give my maximum, but there are many other talented players in this squad. I’m part of that group. If one of us has an off day, others are there to step up—that’s one of our strengths. Everyone knows me: I always run a lot, fight to help my teammates and score goals. I’m grateful to my teammates for creating so many chances for me. They listen to me and I listen to them; there is strong mutual respect among us,” Victor added.

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The Galatasaray striker says Nigeria will not underestimate any opponent in the group, including Tanzania, and that the first match of the tournament is always the most important.

“For us it’s all about the present moment—we’re going to war! The match against Tanzania is first up and we’ll give everything to win. We don’t underestimate anyone in the group, but we’re aware that we’re among the bigger favorites at this tournament. Our desire is to win it, although we know it won’t be easy. A long road lies ahead, but the atmosphere in the team gives me hope that we can achieve a lot” Osimhen said clearly.

Ahead of the tournament there was concern in the Nigerian camp, as Osimhen arrived in Morocco after a hamstring injury. However, everything is now fine and he will be ready to contribute fully on the pitch.

“I’m fine. I came back in time after the hamstring injury. I owe a big thank you to my club, Galatasaray. They were a great help and support, doing everything so that I could get a few matches in my legs. Then I joined the national team. I have to thank everyone at the club—they will now be the Super Eagles’ biggest supporters,” the Nigerian striker concluded.

AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS - GROUP STAGE

Tuesday

15.30: (1.67) DR Congo (3.50) Benin (5.80)

18.00: (1.25) Senegal (5.70) Botswana (13.0)

20.30: (1.45) Nigeria (4.20) Tanzania (8.00)

23.00: (1.70) Tunisia (3.50) Uganda (5.50)