AFCON 2025: Osimhen elevated to vice-captain, penalty taker in Super Eagles reshuffle

Victor Osimhen has been handed expanded responsibilities in the Super Eagles following a leadership reorganisation ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Nigeria’s football authorities confirmed the changes as part of preparations for the tournament, with the Galatasaray striker appointed assistant captain and designated first-choice penalty taker.

The decision follows the international retirement of William Troost-Ekong, forcing a redistribution of leadership duties within the squad just weeks before Nigeria begin their AFCON campaign.

Leadership hierarchy recalibrated

Osimhen will deputise for Wilfred Ndidi, who was officially named Super Eagles captain earlier this week.

Moses Simon retains his position as one of the assistant captains, ensuring continuity within the leadership group.

Troost-Ekong’s exit leaves a significant void. The former skipper led Nigeria to the final of the 2023 AFCON and finished the tournament as Most Valuable Player, while also serving as the team’s primary penalty taker.

Osimhen’s growing authority

Osimhen’s elevation reflects his increasing influence within the national team setup.

Beyond his goal output, the striker has emerged as a central figure in motivating the squad and setting standards on the pitch.

At 26, he is already Nigeria’s second-highest goalscorer of all time, sitting just six goals behind the late Rashidi Yekini.

His consistency, intensity and visible commitment have positioned him as a natural leader in the current generation.

Senior core remains intact

Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon continue to anchor the squad’s experience. Iwobi is Nigeria’s most capped active player, with Simon close behind, both having spent nearly a decade in international football.

With Ndidi as captain and Osimhen taking on greater responsibility, Nigeria head into their Tuesday AFCON clash against Tanzania with a refreshed but clearly defined leadership structure.