Super Eagles vice captain, Victor Osimhen is one of the Super Eagles players who has expressed deep disappointment following Nigeria’s semi-final defeat to host nation Morocco at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
Osimhen, who battled for 118 minutes before Nigeria were eventually eliminated on penalties, admitted the loss was difficult to take, especially given the effort expended by the Super Eagles against a strong Moroccan side backed by a passionate home crowd.
Meanwhile, he also praised the resilience, unity and fighting spirit displayed by the team in a grueling encounter that ended in heartbreak.
Speaking after the match, the Nigerian striker acknowledged the emotional toll of the defeat, stressing how hard it is to return to such a stage and compete for the AFCON title.
“I think me and my teammates are all professionals, it is disappointing and hurting because we have to make for more years to try to qualify again for the AFCON and try to prove a point.”
Osimhen did not hide his frustration with the standard of officiating during the contest, describing it as subpar, but was quick to congratulate Morocco for their victory.
“To be honest with you this game was nothing to write home about in terms of the officiating, it was that bad, for me I have to say a very big congratulations to Morocco.”
“We Believed We Could Win this Trophy” – Osimhen
The Napoli forward spoke glowingly about Nigeria’s performance, highlighting the determination shown by the Super Eagles against quality opposition and in a hostile environment despite the disappointing result.
“I am proud of my team for the fight we put on against a very good quality guy and also playing in front of their fans.”
He admitted the squad is hurting but insisted the belief remains that Nigeria were capable of winning the tournament.
“Moving forward there are greater things that lies ahead, but the whole squad is sad and disappointed because we believe we could win this trophy, we keep it moving.”
“Penalties Are a Game of Luck” – Osimhen
Osimhen also spoke on the nature of the contest, noting that pushing Morocco all the way to penalties was proof of Nigeria’s strength as a collective.
“When you play against this kind of quality team you have to be alert every time.”
“For us to play them and get to penalties it shows the kind of strength we have also as a group and individuals.”
He concluded by accepting the outcome with realism and maturity.
“The penalty is a game of luck and football has happened so we just keep it moving.”
Read More: “Why I Played Chukwueze” – Eric Chelle Reflects on Super Eagles’ Painful AFCON Semi-Final Exit
Read More: “Losing on Penalties Is Very Painful” – Chelle Cries as Super Eagles Fall to Morocco in Semi-Final Heartbreak
Read More: “I Don’t Know My Future” – Eric Chelle Opens Up on His Position
A Standout Tournament for Osimhen
Despite the semi-final disappointment, Osimhen enjoyed an impressive AFCON 2025 campaign, finishing as one of Nigeria’s standout performers.
The Galatasaray forward scored four goals and provided two assists, combining leadership, relentless work rate and decisive contributions to help drive the Super Eagles to the last four.
Focus Shifts to Bronze Medal Match
Nigeria will now turn their attention to the third-place playoff against Egypt, where Osimhen and his teammates will be determined to finish the tournament on a positive note and restore pride.
Fixture: Nigeria vs Egypt
Date: Saturday, 17th of January, 2025
Time: 5pm Nigerian Time
