By By Muminat Ajide
Victor James Osimhen has once again etched his name into Nigerian football history, equaling Segun Odegbami’s long-standing record of 23 goals for the Super Eagles.
This came during Nigeria’s 1-1 draw against Benin Republic in their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
Benin took an early lead in the 16th minute through Mohamed Tijani. However, Osimhen, who recently joined Galatasaray on loan from Napoli equalized in the 81st minute.
The striker headed home a cross from substitute Moses Simon, marking a return to international football after missing the October break.
This latest goal added to Osimhen’s historic run, pushing him past Yakubu Aiyegbeni’s tally of 21 goals to become Nigeria’s third all-time leading scorer earlier in the qualifiers.
Now tied with Odegbami, who scored 23 goals for Nigeria between 1976 and 1982, Osimhen stands just 14 goals away from surpassing the late Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s all-time top scorer with 37 goals.
The draw not only secured Nigeria’s spot in the 2025 AFCON finals but also reaffirmed Osimhen’s status as a key player for the national team.
