Victor Osimhen equaled Segun Odegbami’s Nigeria scoring record of 23 goals with a crucial equalizer during the Super Eagles’ 1-1 draw against the Benin Republic in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match held at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan.
The Napoli loanee, currently making waves in the Turkish Super Lig with Galatasaray, scored his 23rd goal for Nigeria by rising above a crowd of Cheetahs defenders to nod the ball home in the 81st minute.
Osimhen has achieved this remarkable feat in just 38 appearances since his debut in 2017, matching Odegbami’s record, who achieved the same tally in 47 appearances from 1976 to 1981.
Often referred to as “Mathematical,” Odegbami earned his reputation through his exceptional ball skills, speed, and precise crosses from the right wing.
He played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s triumph at the Africa Cup of Nations in 1980, scoring in the final against Algeria.
Osimhen had his early beginnings with Nigeria’s U-17 and U-23 teams before making his senior debut in a 2-0 loss against South Africa on June 10, 2017.
His first senior goal came during the 2023 AFCON qualifier against Sierra Leone, followed by a stunning three-goal performance in a 10-0 rout of São Tomé and Príncipe, marking his first international hat-trick.
He further showcased his scoring ability by netting another hat-trick in a subsequent 6-0 victory against São Tomé and Príncipe, concluding the 2023 AFCON qualifiers as the top scorer with 10 goals.
