Former Super Eagles defender Ifeanyi Udeze has thrown his weight behind Victor Osimhen to rediscover his scoring touch at the Africa Cup of Nations, backing the striker to end his tournament goal drought when Nigeria face Tunisia on Saturday.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa, Udeze expressed confidence that Osimhen’s failure to score in Nigeria’s opening win over Tanzania is only a temporary setback, insisting the Galatasaray forward remains a proven goal threat.
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Osimhen missed several clear-cut chances in the opener, extending a frustrating AFCON run that has seen him score just once in nine appearances across three tournament editions. Despite that record, Udeze believes there is no cause for alarm.
“He didn’t score against Tanzania, but the goals will come,” Udeze told Footy-Africa. “For me, it’s not a problem. He just needs to keep his cool and the goals will follow. He’s a very good player and a natural goal machine.”
Udeze noted that Osimhen’s body language after the Tanzania match showed clear frustration but sees that as a positive sign of the striker’s hunger and mentality.
“He was frustrated and angry that he didn’t score against Tanzania, but hopefully he scores against Tunisia and the goals start flowing,” he added.
Nigeria take on Tunisia in a top-of-the-table Group clash at the 35,000-capacity Complexe Sportif de Fès, with both teams coming into the match on the back of opening wins. Tunisia edged Uganda in their first game, and a win for either side on Saturday would guarantee early qualification for the round of 16.
Udeze is expecting a closely contested encounter, warning that Tunisia will provide a stern test for the Super Eagles.
“The game is going to be tough and an exciting contest for the neutrals,” he said. “Tunisia also have a great side, and we have a strong team as well. If we don’t win, the Super Eagles should at least get a draw because they can’t afford to lose the game. I hope the Super Eagles win, although it won’t be easy for either side.”
Historically, the fixture has been evenly balanced. Nigeria and Tunisia have faced each other 21 times over the last 64 years, with both nations recording six victories apiece and nine matches ending in draws, some of which were decided by penalty shootouts.
All eyes will now be on Osimhen as Nigeria look to assert dominance in the group and take a decisive step towards the knockout stage.
