Super Eagles Captain Victor Osimhen Vows Nigeria Will “Trample on Any Team” in AFCON Knockouts

Nigeria captain Victor Osimhen has delivered a bold message ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stages, declaring that the Super Eagles are ready to “trample on any team” that stands in their way as they chase continental glory.

The Napoli striker, who has emerged as both the emotional leader and attacking focal point of the squad, spoke with confidence and defiance as Nigeria prepared for the high-stakes phase of the tournament.

After navigating the group stage with growing assurance, Osimhen believes the Super Eagles are now peaking at the perfect moment.

“This is the time when mentality matters more than reputation,” Osimhen said in comments shared with Nigerian media. “We respect every opponent, but we are not afraid of anyone.

Whoever we meet, we will be ready to trample on them and move forward.”

Osimhen’s words underline the hunger within the Nigerian camp, a team determined to end a decade-long wait for an AFCON title.

The Super Eagles last lifted the trophy in 2013, and since then have experienced a mix of near-misses, rebuilding phases, and tournament disappointments.

This current squad, however, is beginning to look like one built for the demands of knockout football.

Despite an uneven start to the tournament, Nigeria grew stronger with each match.

The defence, marshalled by William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey, has been one of the most solid units at the competition, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has earned praise for his composure and shot-stopping. Up front, Osimhen’s work rate, movement, and leadership have been just as valuable as his goals.

For Osimhen, wearing the captain’s armband has added responsibility rather than pressure.

At 25, the reigning African Footballer of the Year has embraced the role of motivating teammates and setting standards on and off the pitch.

“When you wear this badge, you have to fight for every ball,” he said. “You have to suffer together, run together, and believe together. This team has that spirit.”

Nigeria’s knockout ambitions are rooted not just in star power, but in tactical discipline.

Head coach José Peseiro has instilled a pragmatic approach, prioritising defensive structure and rapid transitions.

While some critics initially questioned the lack of free-flowing attacking football, results have strengthened the coach’s hand.

Osimhen has been quick to defend the team’s style of play, arguing that tournaments are won with resilience rather than aesthetics.

“At this stage, nobody cares how beautiful you play,” he explained. “What matters is winning. We are ready to fight, to suffer, and to take our chances when they come.”

The striker’s confidence is shared by his teammates, many of whom believe Nigeria’s blend of experience and youthful energy makes them a difficult opponent for anyone left in the competition.

Players such as Alex Iwobi, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ademola Lookman provide pace and creativity, while veterans bring calm under pressure.

Yet Osimhen is also aware of the unpredictability of AFCON, a tournament famous for shocks and dramatic turnarounds.

Heavyweights have already stumbled, and no team can afford complacency.

“AFCON doesn’t forgive mistakes,” he warned. “One moment of switching off and you’re out. That’s why we have to stay focused from the first minute to the last.”

For Nigerian fans, Osimhen’s fiery rhetoric has struck a chord.

Supporters across the country and the diaspora have rallied behind the team, drawn to the striker’s passion and unapologetic ambition.

Social media buzzed with reactions to his comments, with many praising his leadership and desire to restore Nigeria’s dominance on the continental stage.

As the knockout rounds begin, expectations will only grow. Nigeria’s opponents know they face a team rich in talent, experience, and belief.

Osimhen, for his part, has made it clear that the Super Eagles will not be satisfied with narrow ambition.

“We didn’t come here just to participate,” he said. “We came here to win. Every match now is like a final, and we will give everything to make Nigerians proud.”

Whether Nigeria ultimately lifts the trophy remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: with Victor Osimhen leading the charge, the Super Eagles will approach every knockout match with intensity, confidence, and a fearless mindset befitting a team chasing history.