Breaking Yekini’s record doesn’t matter, I just want to win something for Nigeria – Osimhen

Victor Osimhen has played down talks of breaking the Super Eagles’ all-time goalscoring record, insisting his main focus is winning a trophy for Nigeria.

The Napoli striker was on target and also provided an assist as Nigeria defeated Algeria 2–0 in the quarter-final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Saturday.

Osimhen’s goal, his fourth of the tournament, took his international tally to 35 goals, leaving him just two shy of the long-standing record held by the late Rashidi Yekini.

Speaking after the match, the 27-year-old described Yekini as the greatest striker Nigeria has ever produced and said individual milestones mean little compared to team success.

“It doesn’t matter if I equal or surpass the record. Rashidi Yekini is the best striker Nigeria has ever produced,” Osimhen said.

“I’ve also been inspired by players like Odion Ighalo. My biggest desire is to win something for my country, and with the support of my teammates, we are on the right path.”

At the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire, Osimhen scored just once as Nigeria finished runners-up after losing the final to the host nation. In Morocco, however, he has already netted four goals, with at least two matches still to play.

Osimhen attributed his impressive form at the ongoing tournament to growing confidence and continued development, both on and off the pitch.