Former Nigerian international Ifeanyi Udeze has expressed confidence in the quality of Victor Osimhen and has backed the forward to rediscover his scoring touch against Tunisia on Saturday, SportPremi reports.
The Super Eagles talisman has scored 31 times for the national team and is only six shy of the late Rashidi Yekini as the country’s record scorer.
However, in nine appearances at the African Cup of Nations across three editions, the Galatasaray superstar has only found the back of the net once.
Osimhen drew blanks in Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Tanzania in their opening game last Tuesday, as he was uncharacteristically wasteful in front of goal.
The 26-year-old missed several chances that he would have put to bed usually, and when he eventually found the back of the net, it was ruled out for offside.
The Super Eagles have usually relied on the former Napoli forward for goals in recent outings, but were grateful to Semi Ajayi and Ademola Lookman, who got the goals in the 2-1 win over Tanzania, when Osimhen had an unusual off-day in front of goal.
Nigeria face Tunisia tonight in their second group match as they return to Fez Stadium, the venue of their opening 2025 AFCON match.
Udeze backs Osimhen to score for Nigeria against Tunisia
Ifeanyi Udeze, who was named in the CAF team of the tournament after an impressive outing for Nigeria in 2002, believes Osimhen would be back among the goalscorers against Tunisia.
The Galatasaray forward has built a reputation for stepping up when the Super Eagles need him most, and he’ll have another chance to do so ahead of their crucial clash with the Carthage Eagles.
“He didn’t score against Tanzania, but the goals will come. For me, it’s not a problem. He just needs to keep his cool and the goals will follow. He’s a very good player and a natural goal machine”, Udeze revealed.
“He was frustrated and angry that he didn’t score against Tanzania, but hopefully he scores against Tunisia and the goals start flowing.”
On what he expects in tonight’s encounter
“The game is going to be tough and an exciting contest for the neutrals. Tunisia also have a great side, and we have a strong team as well. If we don’t win, the Super Eagles should at least get a draw because they can’t afford to lose the game. I hope the Super Eagles win, although it won’t be easy for either side,” he continued.
Nigeria face Tunisia later tonight, before they conclude group stage action against Uganda on the 30th.
