Super Eagles legend Jay-Jay Okocha has praised Victor Osimhen for rising above recent criticism following Nigeria’s impressive 2–0 victory over Algeria in today’s Africa Cup of Nations quarter-final. Reacting to the performance, Okocha said: “This is the Victor we like to see. He put the negativity of the past few days behind him and did very well.”
Osimhen was the standout performer, scoring one goal and providing an assist as Nigeria booked their place in the semi-finals with a composed and authoritative display.
Osimhen Makes History
The Galatasaray striker opened the scoring in the 47th minute, finishing confidently after a sharp attacking move from the Super Eagles. Just ten minutes later, he turned provider, setting up Adam Akor’s goal in the 57th minute to seal the victory.
The goal marked Osimhen’s 35th international strike for Nigeria, leaving him just two goals shy of Rashidi Yekini’s all-time national team record — a milestone that further cements his status among the country’s greatest forwards.
Coming into the match amid heavy scrutiny and off-field chatter, Osimhen responded in the most emphatic way possible. His movement, pressing, and leadership constantly unsettled Algeria’s defence, while his unselfish assist for Akor underlined his commitment to the team’s success.
Tactical Discipline Fuels Nigeria’s Control
Beyond Osimhen’s heroics, Nigeria delivered one of their most tactically disciplined performances of the tournament. The Super Eagles maintained a compact defensive shape, cut off Algeria’s supply lines in midfield, and transitioned quickly into attack whenever space opened up.
Algeria struggled to impose themselves as Nigeria dominated key areas of the pitch, with the backline composed and the midfield dictating tempo. The result was a mature, tournament-savvy performance that left little room for a comeback.
A Statement to the Rest of Africa
This win sends a strong message across the continent: Nigeria are peaking at the right time. With Osimhen rediscovering top form and closing in on Yekini’s historic record, belief is growing that the Super Eagles can go all the way.
Okocha’s words summed it up best — this was the Victor Nigerians wanted to see: focused, fearless, and decisive when it mattered most. Nigeria march into the semi-finals with confidence, momentum, and a striker writing his name into the history books.
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