Sunday Oliseh, former midfielder for both the Super Eagles and Borussia Dortmund, has emphasized Victor Osimhen‘s pivotal role in Nigeria’s quest for World Cup qualification, according to Soccernet.ng.
The Galatasaray forward netted a hat-trick against the Republic of Benin in Nigeria’s decisive qualifying match, securing their place in the play-offs.
Next month, Nigeria is set to face Gabon in Morocco. Although Osimhen delivered a standout performance at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium recently, some critics argue that coach Eric Chelle‘s tactics may rely too heavily on the former Napoli striker.
2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier match between Super Eagles of Nigeria and Benin Republic at Godwill Akpabio Stadium on October 14, 2025 in Uyo, Nigeria” width=”1024″ height=”683″ />Stay Updated with Our Sports Coverage – Subscribe to Our WhatsApp Channel Today!
Oliseh Warns Against Excessive Reliance on Osimhen
Having been instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2002 FIFA World Cup, Oliseh cautions that the Super Eagles face significant risk if Osimhen were sidelined by injury. He urges coach Eric Chelle to diversify the team’s approach.
“Play-offs are unique; they’re not like regular matches. You don’t enter a play-off aiming to score the most goals,” Oliseh explained on Penalty Spot with Toyo.
“The focus should be on conceding as few goals as possible. It’s about winning one game at a time.”
“In these crucial matches, scoring one or two goals and then shutting down the opposition is key,” Oliseh continued.
“Our immediate goal should be to strengthen our defensive structure because the qualifiers are knockout-style, one game after another.”
“While Osimhen is undeniably vital, we cannot afford to hinge our entire World Cup hopes on a single player’s fitness.”
“For instance, Osimhen scored just once in the last AFCON, yet we reached the final. This shows the team’s strength lies beyond one individual.”
“It’s important that the squad maintains confidence and unity, not allowing the narrative of ‘if Osimhen is out, we’re doomed’ to take hold,” he added from a patriotic standpoint.
Despite cautioning against over-reliance, Oliseh acknowledged Osimhen’s indispensable role as Nigeria prepares to face Gabon.
“Realistically, if Osimhen is sidelined, Nigeria will face serious challenges, especially against Gabon in the upcoming fixture,” he said.
“Gabon boasts one of Africa’s most skilled and seasoned players, often underrated-Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.”
“We need our own leader on the pitch, and right now, that’s Osimhen.”
“No matter what anyone says, Osimhen is the captain on the field for this Super Eagles squad. His fitness is crucial,” concluded the former Ajax player.
Currently, Osimhen ranks second on Nigeria’s all-time top scorers list, trailing only the legendary Rashidi Yekini.