Ikpeba Backs Osimhen to Break Yekini’s All-Time Super Eagles Goal Record

Former African Footballer of the Year Victor Ikpeba has expressed confidence that Victor Osimhen will surpass Rashidi Yekini’s long-standing record as Nigeria’s all-time top scorer. 

Osimhen moved closer to the milestone after netting a brace in the Super Eagles’ 2-0 victory over Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Kigali. The Napoli striker’s double took his international tally to 25 goals, making him Nigeria’s second-highest scorer behind Yekini, who scored 37 goals before retiring in 1998. 

“By the way he is going, Osimhen will soon eclipse Yekini’s record,” Ikpeba said. “He’s a fantastic lad and a committed player who gives everything for the country. We will soon see him break this record.” 

The 26-year-old’s latest feat saw him overtake Segun Odegbami’s 44-year-old record of 23 goals. Odegbami, a Nigerian football legend, congratulated Osimhen, saying, “He has finally overtaken me, and I am very happy for him. He is still young and has a long way to go.” 

Currently in stellar form for Napoli, Osimhen has been a key figure for the Super Eagles since his debut in 2017. His performances include two hat-tricks in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers, solidifying his status as Nigeria’s leading striker. 

With 12 more goals needed to match Yekini’s record, Osimhen remains focused on Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying campaign. After the win against Rwanda, he issued a strong warning to Zimbabwe ahead of their clash on Tuesday in Uyo. 

“We are ready. The remaining matches are wars, and we must fight them with all we have to win,” Osimhen declared as the team arrived in Nigeria. 

A victory against Zimbabwe would take the Super Eagles to nine points in Group C, strengthening their chances of securing a spot in the 2026 World Cup.