Victor Osimhen has admitted that chasing Rashidi Yekini’s long-standing Super Eagles scoring record is inspiring him as Nigeria prepare to face Morocco tonight, SportPremi reports.
The 27-year-old has found the back of the net four times so far at the ongoing African Cup of Nations tournament in Morocco, taking his overall tally to 35 for the national team which is only two from equaling Yekini’s record of 37.
It has also taken him fewer number of games to reach that tally, which is a very impressive feat and highlights his importance since making his debut in 2017..
Osimhen was largely a squad member when Nigeria won bronze at the 2019 African Cup of Nations, but was very influential in their run to the final in Ivory Coast two years ago.
He scored once and provided three assists during the course of the tournament, although the Super Eagles fell short in the final against the host nations, suffering a 2-1 defeat.
This time around, he has already scored twice, including a superb opener in the quarterfinal victory over Algeria.
The three-time African champions head to Rabat later today to face the Atlas Lions in a fascinating clash, hoping for a victory to advance to the AFCON final for a second successive edition.
Osimhen eyes Yekini’s goalscoring record
The Galatasaray talisman is expected to play a major role for the Super Eagles in their semifinal clash against Morocco on Wednesday.
Speaking ahead of the clash, he praised the legendary Yekini and admitted he is thrilled to be within touching distance of surpassing the historic milestone.
“To be honest, initially, I didn’t know about the record, but when it started coming out, a few friends of mine showed me and tried to motivate me, telling me I could do it”, Osimhen revealed.
“I know that I have the ability to do it because of the kinds of talent I have around me in the national team, but at the same time, it’s amazing to be up there with the greats.
“To know that what I’m doing now, I dreamt of as a young child, and watching the Super Eagles play, although I didn’t watch Mr Yekini, bless him, but he’s done something that inspired a lot of people that inspired me”, the 27-year-old added.
“People like Odion Ighalo under Gernot Rohr, as well as Obafemi Martins, so to be up there and on the verge of breaking the record is something I’ll never forget in my life.
“I’ll always hold it in high esteem. It’s an honour to be in the same conversation as the great Rashidi Yekini.”
Senegal and Egypt clash in the other semifinal encounter billed to take place today, with the winner of both last four ties meeting in the final on Sunday.
