Former Nigeria captain Sunday Oliseh has warned the Super Eagles against becoming overly dependent on Victor Osimhen as they prepare for their Africa Cup of Nations semi-final against hosts Morocco.
Nigeria face the Atlas Lions on Wednesday with a place in the AFCON 2025 final at stake, having reached the last four unbeaten following a 2-0 quarter-final victory over Algeria.
Osimhen has been one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the tournament, scoring four goals so far, but Oliseh believes success against Morocco will depend on collective effort rather than individual brilliance.
Eric Chelle and Sunday Oliseh having a conversation in Morocco. Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
Speaking on the Global Football Insights Podcast, the former Juventus midfielder stressed that Nigeria’s strength lies in their team structure and adherence to the coach’s instructions.
“Football is a team game, Nigeria is not Osimhen. Nigeria is these eleven solid players.”
The 1994 AFCON winner also praised head coach Eric Chelle for the transformation he has overseen since taking charge of the national team, describing Nigeria’s recent performances as the best he has seen in many years.
Oliseh highlighted the influence of midfielders Alex Iwobi, Frank Onyeka and Wilfred Ndidi, pointing to their role in driving Nigeria’s intensity and control during matches.
“The way the Super Eagles have played the last three games is the best I have seen them play in a long time,” he said.
“They force the opposition to defend constantly, pressing from defence through midfield.”
Photo Credit: Justina Aniefiok
READ MORE:afcon-2025-chelle-on-ndidi-iwobi-pks-and-belief-ahead-of-morocco-clash
Nigeria will, however, be without Ndidi for the semi-final after the midfielder picked up a suspension, a setback Chelle has already acknowledged in his pre-match preparations.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Osimhen remains central to Nigeria’s attacking threat as the Super Eagles seek to overcome Morocco on home soil and move one step closer to a fourth continental title.
