Super Eagles forward Victor Osimhen has paid tribute to the late Rashidi Yekini, declaring him Nigeria’s greatest striker of all time, regardless of whether he surpasses Yekini’s record as the nation’s top scorer.
Osimhen, currently with 23 international goals, is just 14 shy of breaking the legendary Yekini’s record of 37 goals for the Super Eagles.In a video shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Osimhen expressed his admiration and respect for Yekini, emphasizing that achieving or surpassing the record will not diminish Yekini’s legacy.
“I have a lot of respect for Rashidi Yekini. He’s the greatest striker Nigeria has ever produced, and no record I break or set will change that fact,” the Napoli star stated.
Osimhen, who has been in sensational form for both club and country, clarified that his primary focus is not on personal achievements but on contributing to the success of the Super Eagles. “For me, it’s not about breaking records or competing with anyone.
I just want to do my job, help the team win games, score goals, and create chances for my teammates.
That’s what matters most to me,” he explained.Despite being widely regarded as one of the best Nigerian forwards of his generation, Osimhen has consistently demonstrated humility in acknowledging the impact and legacy of those who came before him.
Yekini, who passed away in 2012, remains a revered figure in Nigerian football history.
Renowned for his clinical finishing, Yekini represented Nigeria in multiple international tournaments, including the 1994 FIFA World Cup, where his iconic celebration after scoring Nigeria’s first-ever World Cup goal became a defining moment in African football.
Osimhen’s comments have drawn praise from fans and pundits alike, with many lauding his humility and team-oriented mindset.
His contributions to the Super Eagles have been instrumental in their recent successes, and he remains a pivotal figure as Nigeria prepares for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
While Osimhen’s trajectory suggests he is on course to etch his name in Nigeria’s football history, his declaration solidifies his admiration for Yekini and the values he upholds as a player.
As the race to break the record continues, Osimhen’s focus remains steadfastly on achieving collective glory with the Super Eagles, underscoring his belief that true greatness is not just about individual accolades but about lifting the team and inspiring the next generation.
