Super Eagles top striker, Victor Osimhen has congratulated his teammates following Nigeria’s 3–1 victory over Uganda in their final Group C match at the AFCON Morocco 2025, a result that confirmed the Super Eagles as group winners with a perfect record.
Nigeria cleared the group with maximum nine points, having earlier defeated Tanzania 2–1, Tunisia 3–2, and now Uganda 3–1, sealing comfortable qualification to the Round of 16 as Group C leaders.
Nigeria Cruise Through Group C With Three Wins From Three
Speaking after the match, Osimhen was full of praise for the collective effort, singling out midfielder Raphael Onyedika, who scored twice and was named Man of the Match.
“First of all, I have to say a very big congratulations to the team. Congratulations to Onyedika for his two goals and Man of the Match award.”
“I think he really deserved it.”
Onyedika’s brace, alongside Onuachu’s first-half opener, ensured Nigeria finished the group phase unbeaten and in dominant style.
Respect for Opponents, Discipline in Execution – Osimhen
Osimhen noted that Nigeria dominated large spells of the game, particularly in the first half, while stating the importance of respecting every opponent at the tournament.
“I think, yeah, overall, we had them in the first half. Of course, they got their moment because as a team, we don’t disrespect any of our opponents that we want to play.”
“We respect them so much, but we have to be conscious of how we play also. And the coach gave clear instructions of how he wants us to play against Uganda.”
The Napoli striker insisted that tactical discipline and adherence to the coach’s instructions remain central to Nigeria’s approach.
Leading for the First Time as Captain
The Uganda match handed Osimhen his first game as Super Eagles captain, and he admitted the experience gave him a new perspective on leadership within the team.
“So for me, it’s important to try to lead the boys in the right way, to try to give them the motivation in which they need, because most of them, this is the first game they started since the beginning of this half.”
“So it’s important to try to put them in the right way, in the right manner. So for me, I try to do what I’m instructed to do by the coach.”
He added that his role was to guide and encourage, while allowing teammates express themselves on the pitch.
“And I just let the boys do their thing and then play their football. And at the end of the day, we got the win.”
“I’m happy not just because I’m the captain, but because when it happens, when I lead the team out, I won my first game.”
Understanding Ndidi’s Joy in Victory
In a light-hearted reflection of his experience, Osimhen revealed he now understands the emotions Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi often displays after victories.
“I think now I see the reason why Ndidi always feel so happy every time we win. So for me, I think it’s really a good performance.”
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Focus on Improvement Ahead of Knockout Rounds
Nigeria enjoyed a convincing win and flawless group stage, however, Osimhen was pointed out that the team still has areas to improve as the competition progresses.
“We have some lapses, but we’re going to go back to watch the videos and see our mistakes and try to correct them.”
With confidence high and qualification secured, the Super Eagles will now turn their attention to the Round of 16, where they will face Mozambique to seek a spot in the Quarterfinals, as the AFCON Morocco 2025 enters its decisive phase.
