Nigerian football legend Austin (Jay Jay) Okocha has thrown his weight behind Napoli forward Victor Osimhen, expressing confidence in the striker’s ability to shine in the upcoming Group A match against Ivory Coast on January 18, 2024 at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations.
In an interview with CAF media, Okocha, a former captain of the Nigerian national team, acknowledged Osimhen’s prowess as a fantastic footballer and a top-tier goal scorer. However, Okocha pointed out that there are certain aspects where Osimhen can improve to meet the high expectations set for him by teeming Nigerian fans. As a legend who led the Nigerian squad for a significant period, Okocha is optimistic that Osimhen will deliver a better performance than in the previous match against Equatorial Guinea.
“Victor Osimhen is undoubtedly a fantastic footballer and a top-tier goal scorer. He needs his team’s support, and I think he received it in the opening game,” Okocha said. He acknowledged that Osimhen missed some obvious chances in the previous match but expressed hope and faith in the striker’s ability to excel in any competition. Okocha believes that Osimhen is determined to make amends for any faults in the upcoming crucial clash against Ivory Coast. We don’t always witness him passing up obvious chances. We have hope and faith in him because we know he can excel in any competition, and I believe he is willing to make amends for his faults.”
The highly-anticipated Group A match between Ivory Coast and the Super Eagles of Nigeria is a key battle in the group stages of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations ongoing in Cote d’Ivoire.
