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Former Nigeria striker, Brown Ideye, has cautioned that the current team is overly dependent on goals from Victor Osimhen, as they approach the 2026 World Cup playoffs.
Osimhen scored a hat-trick as the Super Eagles defeated Benin Republic 4-0 on Monday evening, securing a spot among the four best runners-up in Africa.
This brought his total to 29 goals in 42 appearances, placing him second only to the late Rashidi Yekini, who holds the record with 37 goals.
Osimhen's six goals in the qualification series also established him as Nigeria’s leading scorer.
However, no other Super Eagles player came close to matching his performance. Tolu Arokodare, Semi Ajayi, Frank Onyeka, William Troost-Ekong, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Akor Adams, Kelechi Iheanacho, Raphael Onyedika, and Calvin Bassey each contributed just one goal.
“If Victor Osimhen is the only striker producing results when it comes to scoring goals for the Super Eagles, then we have a serious issue if we qualify for the World Cup,” Ideye expressed on X.
“The other strikers need to elevate their performance,” Ideye added.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Victor Osimhen so crucial for the Super Eagles?
Victor Osimhen is currently the top scorer for the Super Eagles, and his goals are essential for the team's success, especially as they prepare for the World Cup playoffs.
What did Brown Ideye say about the team's performance?
Brown Ideye warned that if Victor Osimhen remains the only striker scoring for the team, it could pose a significant problem for their chances in the World Cup.
