Nigeria's Osimhen star of the show, except in front of goal
Sports
Osimhen, 25, has been the standout performer at the finals with his impressive work rate
ABIDJAN (Reuters) - If the call from Nigeria's coach for more goals from his team at the Africa Cup of Nations is to be heeded then the recently crowned African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen has to strap on his scoring boots.
It has been the only gap in Osimhen’s immense contribution as Nigeria have powered their way to the semi-finals at the tournament in the Ivory Coast, where they will meet South Africa in Bouake on Wednesday for a place in the final.
Osimhen, 25, has been the standout performer at the finals with his impressive work rate, pressing high on defenders and forcing turnovers, running off the ball into space and keeping it up for the entire game despite the soaring heat and humidity. Those in the stands have marvelled at his fitness and fight.
But last season’s top Serie A scorer, whose 26 goals took Napoli to their first title since 1990, has only netted once at the tournament where the much fancied Super Eagles have scored six times in five games to reach the last four.
Nigeria got past Angola in the quarter-finals with a 1-0 win for a fourth clean sheet in a row.
"Once again, we played without conceding and scored a goal, but I would have liked to see more. The team had the potential to generate more chances," coach Jose Peseiro said. "We possess a talented team, but I want us to be more efficient."
It has not been without trying for Osimhen and his team mates.
“All of us are desperate to make up for failing to reach the 2022 World Cup. The only way we can achieve that goal is by winning the Cup of Nations,” Osimhen said earlier in the tournament.
