The next few years promise to be exciting for Nigerian fans as they chase glory in the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup in 2022.
Whilst that may seem a long way away now, Coach Gerhard Rohr will believe that he is working with a group that can be ready to make a positive impact on the big stage. The likes of Samuel Chukwueze, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi are all talented individuals who have their best years in front of them. However, arguably the biggest reason for optimism for this generation is the emergence of Victor Osimhen.
Victor Osimhen raised a shirt with #EndSARS after his first goal for Napoli.
— Uche Jombo Rodriguez (@uchejombo) October 17, 2020
Nigerian international!!!! pic.twitter.com/LdH3BVAEmE
The Lagos born striker has quickly established himself as one of the most feared attacking players in Europe. So much so, he secured a transfer to Italian giants Napoli in the summer for a fee that could be worth up to £74m – a deal which would make him the most expensive African player of all time.
Whilst that understandably brings pressure, it should also bring excitement, because Osimhen has the talent to back it up. Having scored 13 goals in 27 Ligue 1 games for Lille, the 21-year-old has wasted little time in adapting to his new league and his first goal in a 4-1 thrashing of Atalanta delighted his new coach, Genaro Gattuso.
Already, he will be dreaming of delivering Napoli’s first title since Diego Maradona starred for the team and whilst it will be a tough task, it’s achievable.
That’s because perennial winners Juventus are in a period of transition and a quick glance at the mobile betting odds for Serie A shows they are considered a major threat to the Old Lady, along with Inter Milan and Atalanta.
For Nigerians though, the focus will be on one thing – the African Cup of Nations.
Osimhen has already excited the fans on the international stage, scoring four goals in nine games but the challenge will be to replicate that when it really matters. So, the tournament that starts in January 2022 will be his first chance to really deliver for the nation.
The Super Eagles always expect to be competitive when the best teams on the continent face off and it will be no different in 13 months’ time. We’ve mentioned the talent they have over the park but the difference a natural number nine can make is obvious.
That’s what Osimhen will hope to be for the team and with his pace, power and movement, combined with his technical ability, Nigeria could have a complete attacker on their hands.
The Super Eagles are currently the second most expensive team in Africa with a valuation of €230.68million
— #EndSars #EndPoliceBrutality (@iamMightyGeorge) October 15, 2020
Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi is currently Nigeria’s most valuable player while Victor Osimhen occupies second spot following his €70m move to Napoli. pic.twitter.com/f9Ik0TBjUW
Of course, there is always a pressure from the fans for players to live up to previous generations and the desire for the new Jay-Jay Okocha or Nwankwo Kanu can be too much to bear for some.
However, Osimhen is a player who is ready to live up to the hype and perhaps the most exciting thing about him is his age. At 21, he could have around 10-15 years at the highest level and that will see him play in several World Cups and African Cup of Nations tournaments.
If he can establish himself as the main man and deliver on the biggest stage, then a new Nigerian hero could be born that will provide joy to millions across the world.
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