By our reporter 24.12.2025
Victor Osimhen did everything he could to put his name on the score sheet as Nigeria struggled to beat Tanzania 2-1 in their group C opening game of Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday in Fez, Morocco.
Osimhen was denied by the Taifa Stars defence twice and his goal was chalked off by VAR, so when he was pulled out of the fray by coach Eric Chelle, Osimhen clearly demonstrated his frustration.
Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi said he understood Osimhen’s show of anger at being subbed off the game and he would be having a chat with the team’s highest goal scorer in recent times.
“Osimhen is a big player, he wants to do his best for the team, maybe he was a bit frustrated,” Ndidi said
“It’s normal, we are human beings, maybe he feels like the game didn’t go his way because he was trying for the team, that’s the kind of player he is, we needed him.”
“So, I think he is kind of putting too much pressure on himself. I am going to speak to him, he is a great guy, he wants to win, everyone wants to win.”
Also speaking coach Chelle said he has talked things over with Osimhen and according to him, it is all about team work.
“We talked with Victor, and it will stay between me and him. He had some frustration, but we focused on teamwork and his contribution.
” He played well, had some chances, and even had a goal cleared off the line,” Chelle said.
