Osimhen Picked Ahead of Yekini, Odegbami As Nigeria’s Greatest Player, Fans React
- William Troost-Ekong has crowned Victor Osimhen as Nigeria’s greatest ever footballer, citing his potential
- Fans push back, arguing the 26-year-old forward still lags behind Yekini and Odegbami in legacy and World Cup appearances
- Osimhen’s stats are impressive, but many believe true greatness requires winning the World Cup or AFCON
Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has sparked major debate in Nigerian football circles after declaring Victor Osimhen as the greatest Nigerian player of all time, ahead of legendary figures like Rashidi Yekini and Segun Odegbami.
The Napoli forward has scored 26 goals for the national team in 41 appearances, and ranks behind Yekini in the all-time scorers for the Super Eagles.
Source: Getty Images
Osimhen has been pivotal in Nigeria’s success in recent years, and despite failing to qualify the Super Eagles for the World Cup yet, has led the national team to the Bronze medal (2019), and Silver medal (2024) at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
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Speaking to ESPN Africa, Ekong believes Osimhen has what it takes to become the greatest player of all time for Nigeria ahead of the legends before him.
“I think I have to stick with my generation. For me, I think Victor Osimhen has the potential to be the best player we have seen in the Nigerian shirt. Pure talent!”, Ekong said.
According to Afrik-Foot, Yekini still holds the record as Nigeria’s highest goalscorer with 37 goals and also made history as the first man to score for Nigeria at a FIFA World Cup.
Odegbami, on the other hand, was instrumental for the Green Eagles as Nigeria won its first-ever AFCON trophy in 1980 in front of home fans in Lagos.
Journalist disagrees with Troost-Ekong
UK-based Nigerian journalist Samuel Omaenikun in a chat with Legit.ng respectfully disagreed with Troost-Ekong’s assessment, stating:
"Victor Osimhen is undoubtedly a phenomenal talent and one of the finest strikers of his generation, but calling him Nigeria’s greatest ever is premature and dismissive of the legends who paved the way.
"Rashidi Yekini remains unmatched in his goal-scoring legacy and what he achieved for Nigeria on the world stage.
"Greatness isn't just about current form; it's about consistency, legacy, and impact over time."
Fans kick against Osimhen GOAT comment
Meanwhile, fans have disagreed with Troost-Ekong on his choice of Osimhen as Nigeria’s greatest ever footballer.
Source: Getty Images
Many pointed out that the 26-year-old forward’s failure to play at the World Cup for Nigeria counts against him in the bid for the “GOAT” debate.
Kcee posted on X:
“Victor needs World Cup appearances, then win some Nations Cup.”
Oluwasegun echoed same sentiment:
“Greatest Nigeria player way no get World Cup appearance 😭😭😭”
Another fan posted:
“That's a strong statement! It's always exciting to see players share their opinions on legends.”
While Ekong’s comments reflect the admiration Osimhen commands among his current Super Eagles teammates and fans alike, they also challenge the long-standing reverence Nigerians hold for past legends like Yekini and Odegbami.
Until Osimhen takes the Super Eagles to a World Cup or delivers an AFCON title as a leading figure, the Nigerian GOAT debate will remain wide open.
Osimhen delivers commanding control and assist
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Osimhen showed class during his holiday in Lagos, Nigeria, while playing in a five-a-side football match.
The Nigerian international spent quality time mingling with top celebrities and played against popular celebrity Ayodeji Makun, popularly known as AY Comedian, during a street football match during the holiday.
Source: Legit.ng
