Victor Osimhen once again proved his class as Nigeria’s talisman, scoring a remarkable hat-trick in the Super Eagles 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo.
The result secured Nigeria’s place in the CAF playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and saw Osimhen climb to second place on the nation’s all-time top scorers chart with 29 goals in 44 appearances.
Victor Osimhen’s Record-Breaking Form
Victor Osimhen has now scored 29 goals and provided 12 assists in 44 international appearances for the Super Eagles.
The 26-year-old has made history as the first Nigerian to score three international hat-tricks. He achieved these hat-tricks against São Tomé and Príncipe in 2022 and 2023, and against the Benin Republic in 2025.
His influence extends beyond scoring. With energy, leadership, and consistency, Osimhen serves as the focal point of Nigeria’s attack. His goal ratio is among Africa’s best, averaging a goal every 1.5 games.
Victor Osimhen’s Nigeria Stats
- Appearances: 44
- Goals: 29
- Assists: 12
- Hat-tricks: 3 (São Tomé 2022, São Tomé 2023, Benin 2025)
- AFCON Qualifiers: 17 goals, 8 assists in 16 matches
- World Cup Qualifiers: 10 goals, 1 assist in 13 matches
Nigeria’s All-Time Top Scorers
| Rank | Player | Goals | Years Active |
| 1 | Rashidi Yekini | 37 | 1984–1998 |
| 2 | Victor Osimhen | 29 | 2017–Present |
| 3 | Segun Odegbami | 22 | 1976–1982 |
| 4 | Yakubu Aiyegbeni | 21 | 2000–2012 |
| 5 | Ikechukwu Uche | 19 | 2007–2015 |
| 6 | Obafemi Martins | 18 | 2004–2015 |
| 7 | Sunday Oyarekhua | 17 | 1971–1976 |
| 8 | Samson Siasia | 16 | 1984–1999 |
| 9 | Odion Ighalo | 16 | 2015–2022 |
| 10 | Ahmed Musa | 16 | 2010–Present |
Closing in on Rashidi Yekini’s Legacy
With 29 goals, Osimhen is now just eight away from surpassing Rashidi Yekini’s iconic record of 37 goals, a milestone that has stood for over two decades. At only 26 years old, Osimhen is on track to become Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer by the end of 2025, a feat that would cement his legacy among the nation’s football greats.
Recognition and Awards
Victor Osimhen’s record extends beyond the national team. His impressive career has seen him earn several top accolades:
- African Footballer of the Year (2023)
- Serie A Best Striker (2022–23)
- Serie A Footballer of the Year (2022–23)
- Super Lig Top Goalscorer (2024–25)
- Lille Player of the Season (2019–20)
