Nigeria midfielder Frank Onyeka insists defenders are scared of ‘fighter’ Victor Osimhen

Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka has hailed Victor Osimhen as a striker who strikes fear into opposition defences, insisting the Galatasaray forward operates on a completely different level.

Onyeka believes Osimhen’s aggressive style and relentless approach give Nigeria a psychological edge even before matches begin at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

Both players were part of the Nigerian side that suffered heartbreak in the 2023 AFCON final against hosts Ivory Coast, a defeat the Super Eagles are eager to make amends for.

Although Osimhen managed just one goal during that tournament, his overall record for Nigeria underlines his quality, with the striker now sitting second on the country’s all-time goalscoring chart with 31 goals in 45 appearances, behind only Rashidi Yekini.

Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, Onyeka did not hide his admiration for his teammate’s qualities and influence on the pitch.

“He’s such an amazing player,” Onyeka said when asked if Osimhen’s reputation as one of the world’s top strikers gives Nigeria an advantage before kick-off.

Onyeka added, “He’s a guy that wants to fight for every single ball. For me, I think the defenders are scared of him.”

With Nigeria aiming to win the AFCON 2025, Victor Osimhen will be key for the Super Eagles.

At the tournament, the Super Eagles will compete in Group C, where they are drawn against Tanzania, Uganda, and Tunisia.