(DDM) – Former Super Eagles striker Yakubu Aiyegbeni has come to the defence of Victor Osimhen following the Napoli forward’s goalless outing in Nigeria’s 2–1 victory over Tanzania.
The match was part of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualification campaign and took place amid high expectations surrounding Osimhen’s goal-scoring form.
Nigeria secured all three points despite Osimhen failing to register his name on the scoresheet during the encounter.
The Super Eagles showed resilience and tactical discipline to overcome a determined Tanzanian side.
Speaking after the game, Yakubu Aiyegbeni described Osimhen’s performance as unlucky rather than poor.
Aiyegbeni noted that the striker made intelligent runs, created space, and remained a constant threat to the Tanzanian defence.
He explained that football often produces games where strikers do everything right but are denied goals by fine margins.
According to the former Everton and Portsmouth forward, Osimhen’s overall contribution to the team should not be judged solely by goals.
He stressed that Osimhen’s movement and work rate helped stretch the opposition and opened opportunities for his teammates.
The former international added that goal droughts, even short ones, are a normal part of a striker’s career.
Aiyegbeni recalled his own playing days, noting that even top forwards experience matches where chances refuse to convert.
Victor Osimhen has been Nigeria’s most prolific striker in recent years and remains a key figure in the Super Eagles attack.
The Napoli forward played a crucial role in Nigeria’s run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
He also enjoyed a remarkable season in Italy, helping Napoli challenge strongly in domestic and European competitions.
Osimhen’s reputation as one of Africa’s best forwards has continued to grow due to his physicality, pace, and finishing ability.
Against Tanzania, the striker was closely marked and often double-teamed by defenders.
Several of his attempts were blocked, saved, or narrowly missed the target.
Despite this, Nigeria managed to find goals through other attacking options.
The 2–1 victory reinforced the depth within the Super Eagles squad and their ability to win even when star players are contained.
Tanzania, on their part, approached the game with defensive organisation and quick counter-attacks.
The East African side has improved significantly in recent years and has become more competitive in continental football.
Nigeria’s coaching crew has consistently emphasised team effort over individual brilliance.
Analysts believe this approach is helping the Super Eagles develop balance and tactical flexibility.
Yakubu Aiyegbeni praised the team’s collective performance and urged fans to remain patient with Osimhen.
He stated that goals will inevitably return as long as the striker maintains his focus and work ethic.
Football observers agree that Osimhen’s influence extends beyond scoring, especially in high-pressure matches.
The Super Eagles’ victory has strengthened their qualification prospects and boosted confidence ahead of future fixtures.
With more matches ahead in the AFCON campaign, expectations remain high for Nigeria.
Osimhen is widely expected to rediscover his scoring touch in subsequent games.
For now, Aiyegbeni’s defence serves as a reminder that even elite strikers are sometimes victims of bad luck rather than poor form.
The Super Eagles will look to build on their momentum as they continue their journey toward continental success.