Nigeria midfielder Frank Onyeka says Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) defenders are “scared” of Victor Osimhen, claiming the striker is operating on “another level.”
Osimhen, now second on Nigeria’s all-time scoring list with 31 goals, is seen as the Super Eagles’ primary weapon as they look to avenge their 2023 final defeat.
“He’s a guy that wants to fight for every single ball,” Onyeka told BBC Sport Africa. “When Victor leaves [the pitch], it gives the defenders a bit of rest.”
Nigeria struggled during the World Cup qualifiers without him, taking only four points from 15.
Onyeka praised new coach Eric Chelle for transforming the team’s philosophy since January.
The team will miss retired captain William Troost-Ekong and injured defender Benjamin Frederick.
Onyeka revealed he now uses meditation and breathing exercises to stay “calm and relaxed” during high-pressure games.
Nigeria enters the tournament in Morocco driven by the disappointment of missing the next World Cup. “It’s a motivation for us to go into AFCON and win it,” Onyeka added.
