Former Nigerian international Etim Esin has voiced concerns over the Super Eagles’ heavy reliance on Victor Osimhen for goals, describing it as a troubling trend that demands urgent attention. Esin highlighted the inconsistency of other strikers in the national team despite their impressive club form.
The current Super Eagles squad includes notable forwards like Bayer Leverkusen’s Victor Boniface, Nottingham Forest’s Taiwo Awoniyi, Southampton’s Paul Onuachu, and Nice’s Terem Moffi. However, many have struggled to replicate their club’s success on the international stage. For example, Boniface is yet to score in 11 appearances, while Awoniyi has only two goals in 10 games. In stark contrast, Osimhen has netted 23 goals in 39 matches for Nigeria, making him the team’s most dependable striker.
Esin, a former Lokeren and Lierse player, warned against overdependence on Osimhen. “If Osimhen gets injured, what happens? A team can’t rely on one player to consistently deliver. It’s unacceptable for a striker to play multiple games without scoring for the national team,” he remarked.
He also pointed to the absence of a creative midfielder as a major issue, noting that the Super Eagles lack playmakers like Jay-Jay Okocha or Henry Nwosu, who could orchestrate attacks and provide quality assists. “The magic touch is missing. Without a true number 10, the strikers don’t receive the kind of service that can make them thrive,” Esin said.
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As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations approaches, Esin urged the team to address these shortcomings to avoid underperformance in the tournament.
Editorial
Etim Esin’s concerns about the Super Eagles’ overreliance on Victor Osimhen are both timely and valid. While Osimhen’s scoring prowess is undeniable, the inability of other strikers to contribute consistently underscores a worrying imbalance in the team’s attacking dynamic.
Football is a team sport, and relying on one player is both risky and unsustainable. Injuries, dips in form, or suspension could leave the team vulnerable in critical matches. The current struggles of forwards like Boniface and Awoniyi reveal deeper systemic issues that must be addressed.
Esin’s observation about the lack of creative midfielders is particularly striking. Without a playmaker to link the midfield and attack, the strikers are often left isolated or forced to create their chances, which isn’t their primary role. Identifying and nurturing talents capable of filling this gap should be a priority for the Super Eagles coaching staff.
As fans, we hope the team’s technical crew takes Esin’s warnings seriously. Addressing these issues now will not only enhance the team’s performance in the AFCON 2025 but also build a more balanced and resilient squad for the future.
Did You Know?
- Victor Osimhen became Nigeria’s all-time top scorer in a single AFCON qualifying campaign with 10 goals in 2023.
- The Super Eagles last won the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013 under coach Stephen Keshi.
- Etim Esin, often called the “African Maradona,” was known for his flair and creativity during his playing days.
- The Super Eagles have produced world class playmakers like Jay-Jay Okocha, who is still regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers.
- Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON group-stage opponents will include North African powerhouse Algeria, setting the stage for tough competition.
