Super Eagles midfielder Frank Onyeka has issued a stern warning to opposition defenders ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
According to Onyeka, his teammate Victor Osimhen operates on a completely different level that strikes fear into rivals.
Both players are key figures in the squad aiming to redeem Nigeria’s image. The team is looking to bounce back after a heartbreaking defeat to hosts Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON final.
The “Fear Factor”
Osimhen, now 26, has established himself as a lethal finisher. Although he scored just once in the previous tournament, he currently ranks second on Nigeria’s all-time goalscoring list. With 31 goals in 45 appearances, he trails only the legendary Rashidi Yekini.
Onyeka believes Osimhen’s tenacity sets him apart.
“He’s such an amazing player. He’s a guy who wants to fight for every single ball,” Onyeka stated. “I think the defenders are scared of him. Victor is on another level.”
The Impact of Absence
Onyeka highlighted Osimhen’s immense influence by pointing to Nigeria’s struggles during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. In the striker’s absence, the team managed to collect only four points from five games.
The midfielder specifically noted the play-off match against DR Congo. He revealed that the dynamic of the game shifted negatively when the Galatasaray striker was forced off at halftime.
“Missing Victor going into the second half changed a bit,” Onyeka admitted. “Even one of the players from Congo said the same. When Victor left, it gave the defenders a bit of rest, and they could relax.”
Onyeka’s Personal Battle
While praising his teammate, Onyeka opened up about his own career challenges. The midfielder has struggled to secure a starting spot at Brentford under new manager Keith Andrews.
He spent the previous season on loan at Augsburg in Germany. Although he failed to score in 34 appearances for the German side, he focused heavily on mental preparation. Onyeka adopted mindfulness techniques to maintain his composure.
“It’s good because if you’re stressed, you try to be calm and relaxed as much as possible,” he explained. “I focus on my breathing to make sure I feel settled before games and even during half-time.”
Motivation for Glory
Despite his club drought, Onyeka has been vital for his country. He scored a 91st-minute winner against Benin and netted another goal in the loss to DR Congo.
He views the team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup as a major driving force for the upcoming continental tournament.
“It’s sad that we didn’t qualify for the World Cup, given the talent we have,” Onyeka concluded. “But it’s motivation for us to go into AFCON and win it and bring it back home.”
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