Former Nigerian international Peter Rufai has hailed Victor Osimhen as a rare talent who elevates the Super Eagles whenever he plays, Soccernet.ng reports.
The reigning African Footballer of the Year has been a consistent performer for both club and country, delivering crucial goals for Nigeria since making his debut in June 2017.
Osimhen’s impact is undeniable. With 23 goals and 11 assists in 39 appearances for the Super Eagles, he has quickly risen to second on Nigeria’s all-time goalscorers list.
However, in his absence, Nigeria’s attack often falters, with strikers like Victor Boniface, Taiwo Awoniyi, and Umar Sadiq struggling to replicate his output.
Rufai believes Osimhen’s unmatched hunger for goals and commitment to excellence are what set him apart.
“When Osimhen comes into a team, he makes a difference,” the former Deportivo La Coruna goalkeeper told Completesports.
“It is not like the other players do not have their impact; they also make their impact. But don’t forget in life that to be a champion, you just have to give everything, and that is an area where Osimhen is doing very well.
“He’s always hungry for goals and ready to give his best whenever he is called upon to represent the Super Eagles.”
Rufai acknowledged that other Nigerian strikers occasionally struggle under pressure, especially during critical matches.
“Other players that play in the same position with him may experience a bad day, and the fact that the match is important to the fans, that player that doesn’t function happens to be in the spotlight,” Rufai noted.
Osimhen’s most recent international goal came in Nigeria’s 1-1 draw with Benin Republic earlier this month, a result that sealed the Super Eagles’ place at the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The Galatasaray striker has also been in scintillating club form this season, notching eight goals and four assists in just ten appearances across all competitions.