Nigeria's Victor Osimhen showed his magic control in training ahead of the Super Eagles match against Benin Republic in the AFCON 2025 qualifier.
Nigeria's star striker and reigning African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen, has sent a clear message of intent ahead of the Super Eagles AFCON 2025 qualifier against Benin Republic.
The 25-year-old showcased his sublime skills during a training session, recreating a moment of magic that first caught the eye during his time with Italian giants Napoli.
08:48 - 07.09.2024
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In the video from the AFCON 2023 that has quickly circulated among fans, Osimhen is seen effortlessly controlling a high ball with his chest, allowing it to drop perfectly onto his knee before firing it into the net.
This display of technical brilliance is reminiscent of a similar move he executed in a Serie A match for Napoli, where his chest control drew widespread admiration.
That video comes just days after he arrived in the Super Eagles camp, following a turbulent transfer window that culminated in a loan move to Turkish powerhouse Galatasaray.
Despite the off-field distractions, Osimhen appears focused and in fine form as Nigeria prepares for their crucial opener in the AFCON 2025 qualifying campaign.
Saturday evening's match against the Benin Republic's Cheetahs is far from a straightforward task for the Super Eagles.
The Nigerian team is still smarting from a shock defeat to Benin in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a result that adds extra spice to this encounter, a match Osimhen, however, missed.
Under the guidance of experienced coach Gernot Rohr, the Cheetahs are expected to pose another significant challenge.
However, interim Super Eagles coach Augustine Eguavoen is downplaying any talk of revenge. His focus remains squarely on securing a victory and the all-important three points to kick-start Nigeria's journey to AFCON 2025 on a positive note.
With Osimhen looking in good shape and the team determined to put past disappointments behind them, Nigerian fans will be hoping that the training ground magic translates into on-field success against Benin.
The fans will also hope that Osimhen can lead the charge with his extraordinary skills and goal-scoring ability as the Eagles look to overcome the Cheetahs on a second ask.