Victor Osimhen Faces Critical Juncture After AFCON Disappointment

Victor Osimhen’s Journey: From Serie A Stardom to AFCON Frustration

Victor Osimhen, once the most sought-after striker in world football, stands at a crossroads following another missed opportunity at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). After his historic 2022/23 season with Napoli—where he became Serie A’s first African top scorer and delivered their first Scudetto in over three decades—Osimhen’s career trajectory seemed set for greatness. But less than two years later, the narrative has changed. Turbulence with Napoli forced Osimhen to depart for Galatasaray, initially on loan, then permanently, as the relationship between club and player broke down.

Adjustment at Galatasaray and the Super Lig Challenge

At Galatasaray, Osimhen has continued to score and has added a Super Lig title to his achievements, but the Turkish league’s reputation doesn’t match Europe’s elite competitions. Despite his individual brilliance, questions linger about whether Osimhen is fulfilling his early promise at the highest level. Elite clubs like Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea have hesitated to pursue him, reportedly due to concerns over his temperament and consistency.

Victor Osimhen and the Super Eagles: Unfulfilled Promise

Osimhen’s international career with Nigeria’s Super Eagles has mirrored his club frustrations. Surrounded by a “golden generation” including Ademola Lookman, Alex Iwobi, and Wilfred Ndidi, Osimhen has yet to translate this talent into tangible success for his nation. Nigeria’s struggles since the 2018 World Cup have been well documented: failures at successive AFCON tournaments, missing qualification for the 2022 World Cup, and an underwhelming start to the 2026 qualifying campaign. Even under new manager Eric Chelle, Nigeria’s resurgence came too late.

AFCON 2025: Another Heartbreak for Nigeria and Osimhen

The 2025 AFCON saw optimism return, with Osimhen contributing goals and assists in group matches and the knockout rounds. Yet, the semi-final against Morocco exposed old wounds. Nigeria were outplayed, registering just two shots to Morocco’s 15 in a goalless draw that was decided on penalties. Osimhen, substituted late due to injury, struggled to make an impact, touching the ball only 27 times and failing to trouble the opposition defense. The Super Eagles’ golden era remains unfulfilled, and questions about Osimhen’s leadership and maturity are louder than ever.

Controversy and Conflict: The Impact on Osimhen’s Reputation

Off the pitch, Osimhen’s fiery temperament has come under the spotlight. A public spat with national team manager Finidi George—broadcast on social media—raised doubts about his discipline and professionalism. His on-field altercation with teammate Ademola Lookman during the Mozambique match, and subsequent visible frustration, drew criticism from Nigerian legends like Jon Obi Mikel. The consensus is clear: no player is bigger than the team.

Legacy and the Road Ahead for Victor Osimhen

Despite these setbacks, Osimhen remains on the verge of breaking Rashidi Yekini’s all-time Nigeria goal record. But personal milestones will matter little without silverware. With the Super Eagles’ core squad aging and the 2030 World Cup possibly out of reach, the time for Osimhen to lead by example is now. He must overcome his flashes of petulance, maintain peak fitness, and prove he can be the player who rises in decisive moments—for club and country.

Can Victor Osimhen Realize His Full Potential?

Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray demonstrates his continued ambition, and his scoring record keeps him in the spotlight. Yet, unless he channels his passion more constructively and avoids controversies, his chance at true greatness may slip away. For more news, visit our for more news homepage.

Opinion: Time for Osimhen to Mature—For Himself and Nigeria

Victor Osimhen’s journey is a tale of immense potential meeting recurring obstacles, some self-inflicted. If he can control his emotions and focus on collective success, both Galatasaray and Nigeria may yet see him fulfill the star billing he once promised. But time is running out—the next few seasons will define whether Osimhen’s legacy is one of what was achieved, or what might have been.