AFCON 2025: Osimhen talks tough ahead of Tanzania opener
Victor Osimhen has issued a clear warning to opponents as Nigeria prepare to open their Africa Cup of Nations campaign in Morocco, insisting the Super Eagles are prepared and committed to pushing for the title despite lingering doubts around the team.
Context of pressure and skepticism
Nigeria arrive at AFCON 2025 under criticism. Since finishing runners-up at the last tournament, performances have been inconsistent, culminating in a painful defeat to DR Congo in the 2026 World Cup playoff final last month.
That setback, following a second-place finish behind South Africa in qualifying, has dampened public confidence.
Current projections reflect that mood, with Nigeria ranked outside the top four favourites for the continental crown.
Osimhen: belief remains intact
Osimhen, however, has dismissed any suggestion of a broken squad.
Speaking ahead of the opener, the Galatasaray striker acknowledged the disappointment of recent failures but stressed that the group has refocused.
He underlined trust in the squad, the coaching crew and the wider setup, framing the tournament as an opportunity to reassert Nigeria’s credentials on the continental stage.
“It’s all about going to war. Tuesday is the first one, and we will give everything. We are not underrating anyone in our group, but I think we’re up there with so many favourites in this tournament.
“So we’re going to give our all to make sure that we actualise the dream of trying to win the AFCON. It’s not gonna be easy, we still got a long way to go so I am positive about this squad.”
AFCON opener and expectations
Nigeria begin their Group C campaign on Tuesday, December 23, against Tanzania at the Complexe Sportif de Fès.
On paper, the Super Eagles are clear favourites, though history suggests they rarely get easy starts, even against lesser-ranked opposition.
Osimhen will lead the line and shoulder responsibility, with Nigeria aiming to set an early tone and convert rhetoric into results as they chase a fourth AFCON title.
