Victor Osmihen is more determined than ever to win AFCON 2023. Despite a disappointing 1-1 draw with Equatorial Guinea, the Napoli striker is optimistic for the rest of the competition. And he's looking forward to facing the country of his idol Didier Drogba, host of the AFCON 2023, in Group A this Thursday, January 18.
Victor Osmihen scored his first goal in an African Cup final.But it was not enough to overcome a fine Equatorial Guinean team. Despite this setback, the Lagos native is determined to go as far as possible in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
"The Super Eagles have a history closely linked to the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations. Since 2013, we've been looking for another title, and that's over a decade, which is a long time for a football-mad country like Nigeria. We are the country of Jay-Jay Okocha and Nwankwo Kanu, our illustrious elders to whom we are heirs, and we owe it to ourselves to restore this image so dear to our hearts," the Napoli striker told Cafonline.com.
Osimhen believes that the Super Eagles have what it takes to win this fourth star for Nigeria. "A lot of people, myself included, have high hopes for our generation. We know what we're capable of, we know what we want. Côte d'Ivoire is a wonderful country, but we're not here as tourists."
playing in the AFCON 2023, Victor Osimhen is realizing a big dream. That of playing on the home turf of his idol, Didier Drogba. "Life is surprising.When I was younger, I never missed a Didier Drogba match. I imitated his every move, and his celebration was mine when I scored against my mates. Taking part in an African Cup of Nations in my idol's homeland is an honor for me. I feel like I've somehow reconnected with the Olusosun kid I was, who had so many dreams, including that of one day becoming African champion," confides the 24-year-old.
In another sign of destiny, Osimhen and Nigeria will face off against the country of legend Drogba this Thursday, January 18. The three-time African champions, who were held to a draw by Equatorial Guinea, will need to win if they are to progress to the second round.Osimhen and his team-mates will be giving their all to beat the Elephants."We're going to reassure ourselves after our draw with Equatorial Guinea, but it's not going to be easy because the fans are going to be pushing their team. Côte d'Ivoire have some excellent players, but our aim will be to be more effective in front of goal, and not miss any chances that come our way," he concludes.
