Super Eagles captain Victor Osimhen has issued a bold warning to Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations rivals, declaring that the team can “trample on any team” as they chase their first continental title in 13 years.
Nigeria wrapped up a perfect group-stage campaign with a 3–1 victory over Uganda, fielding a largely second-string squad. The win gave them three wins from three matches, only the fourth time the Super Eagles have achieved a clean sweep in AFCON history.
Victories over Tunisia, Tanzania, and Uganda have reinforced Nigeria’s status as one of the tournament’s most dangerous sides, according to the Galatasaray striker.
“Yes, I would count my country as one of the favourites,” Osimhen said after the match. “We are one of the most feared teams in this tournament. Any team can come and play us. If they are good, they can get through, but if they are not, we can trample on any team because this squad has the quality to hurt any opponent.”
Nigeria will face Mozambique in the Round of 16 on January 5.
Despite his confident words, Osimhen emphasised the need for humility and focus as the competition enters the knockout phase.
“We respect every team that progresses to the next round,” he said. “The Round of 16 will be tougher than the group stage, so the boys are ready to give everything. We respect any team we meet, but we are not afraid of anyone.”
The Super Eagles have not lifted the AFCON trophy since 2013, finishing runners-up at the last edition after losing to hosts Ivory Coast in the final. Osimhen said ending the drought would be hugely meaningful for the team and the nation.
“It will mean a lot, not just to me but to the whole team and to Nigeria. It has been a long time since this trophy came home, and every training session reminds us that we came here to win it,” he said.
He also cautioned against getting carried away by early success. “We don’t get carried away by the hype. There’s still a lot of work to do. We are taking it game by game.”
Osimhen’s statements carried extra weight as he wore the captain’s armband for the first time in his international career against Uganda, leading a heavily rotated side after coach Eric Chelle made several changes.
“It feels good,” he said. “It comes with huge responsibility, but it helped me understand why the captain feels so happy whenever we win.”
Addressing doubts about his temperament and leadership, Osimhen said his focus was on motivating his teammates and following the coach’s instructions.
“For me, it was important to lead the boys the right way and give them the motivation they needed, especially those playing their first game of the tournament,” he said.
Despite being one booking away from suspension, Osimhen started the match and delivered a disciplined performance before being substituted late on.
“I can’t question the coach’s tactics,” he added. “If he wants me to play, I’m ready. If I’m on the bench, that’s fine too. Whenever I’m called upon, I give my best.”
