Ifeanyi Udeze backs Osimhen to end AFCON goal drought

Emmanuel Onyeacholem
2 Min Read
Nwabali celebrates with Victor Osimhen

Former Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze has expressed confidence that Victor Osimhen will soon open his goal account at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations, despite the striker’s slow start to the tournament.

Nigeria’s talisman failed to score in the Super Eagles’ opening win over Tanzania, missing several clear-cut chances, but Udeze insists there is no cause for concern ahead of Saturday’s Group clash with Tunisia.

Osimhen’s difficulties in front of goal mean he has now scored just once in nine AFCON appearances across three tournaments. However, his overall form remains strong. The Galatasaray forward arrived in Morocco after scoring 12 goals for his club this season and has added a further eight goals for Nigeria in 2025.

Semi Ajayi celebrates his goal with Victor Osimhen
Semi Ajayi celebrates his goal with Victor Osimhen

Udeze played down fears over the drought, stressing that patience remains key.

“He didn’t score against Tanzania, but the goals will come,” Udeze said. “For me, it is not a problem. He just needs to keep his cool and the goals will follow. He is a very good player and a natural goal machine.”

The former defender also pointed to Osimhen’s visible frustration after the opener as a sign of his hunger to succeed.

Ex-Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze
Ex-Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze (Photo: FETHI BELAID/AFP via Getty Images)

“He was frustrated and angry that he didn’t score against Tanzania, but hopefully he scores against Tunisia and then the goals will start flowing,” Udeze added.

Nigeria face Tunisia at the Fez Stadium in a crucial Group encounter, with both sides targeting an early place in the round of 16.

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Emmanuel Onyeacholem Chukwuyem is a sports journalist, football commentator, writer, and broadcaster focused on African football, delivering in-depth coverage of domestic leagues, national teams, and major international tournaments.
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