Victor Osimhen produced an unforgettable moment for football fans after placing a surprise phone call to Didier Drogba live during an event to settle a debate over the Chelsea legend’s goalscoring record.
The Nigeria striker had been asked how many goals Drogba scored during his illustrious Chelsea career. Confident but wanting to be certain, Osimhen decided there was only one person who could provide the definitive answer.
Pulling out his phone, the Super Eagles forward called the former Ivory Coast captain, who answered almost immediately.
“So we’re asking questions about you,” Osimhen told Drogba. “He said, ‘How many goals did you score for Chelsea?’ I said you scored a lot, and I picked 164 goals. So I thought, ‘You know what? I’m going to call the big man to reconfirm.'”
Drogba quickly confirmed Osimhen had the correct figure, prompting laughter and applause from those present.
The conversation then took a more emotional turn when veteran broadcaster Frank Edoho, who was hosting the session, seized the opportunity to pay tribute to one of African football’s greatest icons.
“I’m a Chelsea fan,” Edoho told Drogba. “Let me tell you, Nigeria, you are a cult hero. Everybody looks up to you. They still remember you.
“So I want to say thank you for what you do.”
Clearly touched by the message, Drogba responded warmly before reflecting on the influence he hopes African football’s older generation continues to have on today’s stars.
“The legacy continues for these guys,” Drogba said. “That’s why I’m so proud.”
He also thanked those present for recognizing his contribution to African football, with Edoho adding: “Thank you for what you do for African footballers.”
The spontaneous exchange offered a glimpse into the close relationship between two generations of African football stars, with Osimhen openly referring to Drogba as “the big man” and describing him as someone who is “like a father” to him.