Victor Osimhen Faces Crucial Turning Point in AFCON Legacy

Victor Osimhen once stood on the brink of global football stardom. After his sensational 2022-23 season with Napoli—scoring 26 goals and powering the team to their first Serie A title in over three decades—Osimhen was the most coveted striker on the continent. Yet, just a few years later, questions loom over whether Osimhen, currently leading the attack at Galatasaray, can truly fulfill his immense promise, especially after Nigeria’s latest disappointment at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Victor Osimhen: From Napoli Heights to AFCON Disappointments

Victor Osimhen’s career trajectory changed dramatically after his high-profile fallout with Napoli. Forced to leave the Italian champions due to irreparable differences, Osimhen joined Galatasaray, first on loan and then permanently. While his goal-scoring touch has continued in the Turkish Super Lig, critics argue that the league’s lower profile has diminished his standing among Europe’s elite strikers.

Despite club-level success, Osimhen’s international career has been marked by frustration. As the face of a golden generation for Nigeria, featuring stars like Ademola Lookman and Wilfred Ndidi, Osimhen has struggled to inspire the Super Eagles to major titles. Their AFCON semi-final exit to Morocco in 2025 underscored a familiar pattern of underachievement.

AFCON Heartbreak and Osimhen’s Role for Nigeria

Nigeria’s recent AFCON campaigns have been turbulent. Their group-stage exit at the 2018 World Cup and failure to qualify for Qatar 2022 set the stage for high expectations in Ivory Coast, with Osimhen at the helm. However, despite Nigeria reaching the final in 2023, Osimhen managed just one goal from 24 shots and failed to influence the big games, including the decisive loss to the hosts.

The 2026 World Cup qualifiers brought more disappointment, as Nigeria stumbled early before rallying under Eric Chelle, only to fall short again. Even Osimhen’s eight goals in seven appearances could not compensate for missed opportunities through injury and controversy.

Victor Osimhen’s AFCON Conduct Under Scrutiny

Off the pitch, Osimhen’s emotional responses have added complexity to his legacy. Tensions flared after he was accused of skipping games unnecessarily—a claim he vehemently denied on social media, leading to a public spat with former national coach Finidi George. His subsequent on-field clash with teammate Ademola Lookman during a comfortable victory highlighted further concerns about his discipline and leadership.

Nigerian legend John Obi Mikel weighed in, supporting Osimhen’s passion but criticizing his decision to stop playing and leave the pitch early. “It’s always about the team, always about the country. Nobody is bigger than the club or the country,” Mikel emphasized.

Chasing Records but Missing Silverware

Despite these controversies, Osimhen remains close to breaking Rashidi Yekini’s all-time scoring record for Nigeria. Yet, he insists personal achievements are secondary to collective success. “I just want to win something important for my country,” Osimhen stated before Nigeria’s semi-final exit to Morocco. Unfortunately, his performance in the goalless draw and penalty shootout loss fell short, with just 27 touches and little impact in attack.

The Future: Can Victor Osimhen Realize His Full Potential?

As Nigeria’s squad ages, so too do concerns about Osimhen’s peak years. The striker will be nearing 31 by the 2030 World Cup—if Nigeria qualifies. Recent seasons have seen his maturity questioned, both for on-pitch petulance and public disputes. Premier League clubs have reportedly hesitated to sign him, with character doubts lingering, partly fueled by former managers and his own visible frustration during matches.

Osimhen’s injury history adds another layer, limiting his consistency and availability. Despite all this, his ambition remains evident, opting to join Galatasaray over lucrative Saudi offers in pursuit of European glory. If he can translate his Super Lig and Champions League form into harmony with the national team, Osimhen may yet restore his world-class reputation.

Opinion: Time for Osimhen to Lead by Example and Deliver

Victor Osimhen’s journey encapsulates both the brilliance and the frustration of Nigerian football’s recent era. For Victor Osimhen to cement his legacy, he must channel his passion towards unity and leadership, avoid public confrontations, and consistently deliver in crucial matches. The talent is undeniable—but unless he matures both on and off the pitch, Osimhen risks being remembered not just for goals, but for unfulfilled promise. For more updates on Victor Osimhen and Nigerian football, visit for more news.