Victor Osimhen has declared his readiness for the last phase of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda.
The 25-year-old has been in scintillating form for Galatasaray since joining the Turkish club on a long-season loan from Napoli on the last day of the summer transfer window.
The Nigeria international has 12 goal contributions (eight goals and four assists) in nine appearances.
He was twice on target on Sunday, during the Super Lig leaders’ 3-2 win over second-placed Samsunspor, recording his second brace in three days.
The former Lille player is now set to rejoin the Eagles for international duties after missing Nigeria’s recent doubleheader against Libya, sharing his excitement and confidence following his strong showing ahead of the break.
“The victory was important”, he stated.
“We will go to the national team with this confidence. When we return, we have the power to win every match”.
Osimhen, who has quickly become a fan favourite in Istanbul, dedicated the weekend’s victory to Galatasaray’s passionate supporters, who have shown him overwhelming support since his arrival.
“I am very happy at Galatasaray”, he said. “The fans love me very much. I dedicate the victory to them”.
His last goal for Nigeria was against Benin Republic in the reverse fixture in July, when the three-time African champions defeated Gernot Rohr’s team 3-0. He will hope to replicate that form and find the back of the net when both countries meet in Abidjan on Thursday.
Nigeria are top of Group D with 10 points, and a win will guarantee them a spot at the next AFCON finals in Morocco with a game to spare.
