Osimhen edges closer to the top of Nigeria's all-time scorers

AFCON 11 January 2026 at 10:56

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

Victor Osimhen continues his climb towards the summit of Nigeria’s all-time top scorers. The Galatasaray striker netted a crucial goal against Algeria on Saturday night, during the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Thanks to his performance, Osimhen played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s 2-0 victory over the Fennecs. He opened the scoring before providing a key assist to Akor Adams for the second goal of the match.

Osimhen just two goals away from Rashidi Yekini’s all-time record

Now, with 35 goals in 51 caps, the Nigerian international is closing in on the absolute record held by the legendary Rashidi Yekini, who scored 37 goals for the Super Eagles.

In this edition of AFCON, Victor Osimhen has established himself as one of the tournament’s most prolific strikers. He has racked up four goals and two assists, making a total of six goal contributions since the start of the competition.

Asked about the possibility of breaking Yekini’s record, Osimhen was quick to downplay the importance of personal statistics. He explained that his only priority remains the team’s collective success and Nigeria’s objectives in this continental tournament.

The striker also paid tribute to Rashidi Yekini, whom he considers the greatest attacking reference in the history of Nigerian football, stressing that true achievement lies in winning an African title, far beyond any individual records.

Nigeria will now face Morocco, the tournament hosts, in the semifinals—a highly anticipated clash between two of the main contenders for the crown.

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