Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has called for greater recognition for Raphael Onyedika after the midfielder’s match-winning display in the Super Eagles’ 3–1 victory over Uganda at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Onyedika scored twice in the second half at the Fes Stadium, turning the game decisively in Nigeria’s favour after Paul Onuachu had given Eric Chelle’s side a first-half lead. Both of the midfielder’s goals were set up by Samuel Chukwueze, underlining Nigeria’s growing understanding in attack.
Osimhen, the former African Footballer of the Year, was quick to shift attention away from himself and onto his teammate, insisting that Onyedika’s contribution has gone unnoticed for too long.
“Onyedika has been one of our best players and most of the time, he doesn’t get the hype he deserves,” Osimhen said.
“He is really a talented player. For the kind of performance he put in against Uganda, I think he deserves to be in the spotlight.”
The former Napoli forward added that individual praise should not always centre on star names, stressing that performances like Onyedika’s are vital to Nigeria’s success.
“It’s not about me, it’s not about the Super Eagles,” Osimhen said. “It’s all about him because he has done so well and he deserves to be in the spotlight.”
The win secured Nigeria’s place in the Round of 16, where they will face Mozambique with Osimhen hopeful that Onyedika’s performance marks the start of wider recognition.
