Nigeria’s star striker Victor Osimhen has warned his teammates to be clinical in front of goal or face disappointment against Cote d’Ivoire in today’s crucial Group A encounter in the African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Super Eagles drew their opening game against Equatorial Guinea, where they squandered countless chances.
However, Osimhen, the reigning CAF Africa Footballer of the Year, understand that to scale through the Cote d’Ivoire challenge today, they must be clinical in front of goal.
He said: “We told ourselves after our draw against Equatorial Guinea that the game against Côte D’Ivoire will not be easy because the fans will rally behind their team.
“Côte d’Ivoire has excellent players, our objective will be to be more efficient in front of goal, not to miss the opportunities we create.”
He said despite the pressure and the need to deliver at the AFCON, the team is still focused
He noted: “I feel good. We are in good condition here in Abidjan, the whole team is focused on the mission.”
He added: “The Super Eagles have a history closely linked to the AFCON but since 2013, we have been looking for a new coronation, it’s been more than a decade, that’s a long time for a football-loving country like Nigeria.
“We are the country of Jay-Jay Okocha, of Nwankwo Kanu, our illustrious elders of whom we are the heirs, we must restore this image so dear to our heart.”
“You know, I come from far away, I made a lot of sacrifices to realize the dream of becoming a professional footballer. I don’t take anything for granted. I always challenge myself on the pitch, score more goals, and provide more assists, each time, I challenge myself.
“Many people, myself first and foremost, have a lot of hope in our generation. We know what we are capable of, we know what we want. Cote d’Ivoire is a wonderful country, but we are not here for tourism.”
