Frank Onyeka believes Victor Osimhen’s presence alone is enough to unsettle any defence and says rival teams at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations will approach games against Nigeria with fear.
Both players were part of the Super Eagles side that fell short in the final of the 2023 Afcon, losing to host nation Ivory Coast. With that disappointment still fresh, the squad is now determined to go one step further and lift the trophy.
While Osimhen managed only one goal at the last tournament, his overall impact for Nigeria has continued to grow. The 26-year-old has now scored 31 times in 45 appearances for the national team, placing him second on Nigeria’s all-time scorers list, behind only Rashidi Yekini.
Onyeka, speaking to BBC Sport Africa, said Osimhen’s reputation as a world-class striker gives Nigeria an edge even before the first whistle.
“He’s an unbelievable player,” Onyeka said. “He fights for every ball, and defenders know that. I think they’re already worried when they see his name on the team sheet. Victor is simply on another level.”
Nigeria’s struggles without Osimhen were evident during their failed 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, where the Super Eagles collected just four points from a possible 15 in matches he missed.
His absence was also felt in the World Cup play-off defeat to DR Congo, after the Galatasaray striker was forced off at the interval.
“When Victor didn’t come out for the second half, things changed,” Onyeka admitted. “Even one of the Congo players said it afterwards. Once he was gone, the defenders could breathe a little and play with more freedom.”