Victor Osimhen, the dynamic Super Eagles striker, has openly expressed his admiration for Ivorian and Chelsea legend Didier Drogba, a player he idolized during his formative years.
As Osimhen takes the stage at the Africa Cup of Nations, he finds special meaning in playing in Ivory Coast, Drogba's homeland.
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Drogba's illustrious career at Chelsea, punctuated by 164 goals in 381 appearances and a haul of prestigious titles including four Premier League crowns and a Champions League victory, set a high benchmark that Osimhen aspires to.
A Special Connection at AFCON
The significance of playing in the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast resonates deeply with Osimhen. Reflecting on this sentimental journey, he shared with the Confederation of African Football's official website, "Life is surprising, when I was younger, I never missed a Didier Drogba match.
"I imitated each of his gestures, I did his celebration when I scored against my friends. Participating in a TotalEnergies CAF AFCON in the native land of my idol is an honour for me.
"I have the impression of being reconnected in a certain way with the kid from Olusosun that I was and who had a lot of dreams, including that of one day being Africa champion."