Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has taken another significant step toward cementing his legacy in Nigeria football.
The reigning CAF African Player of the Year has moved up to third place on Nigeria’s all-time top scorers’ list, surpassing the iconic Yakubu Aiyegbeni.
Osimhen’s goal in Nigeria’s 3-0 victory over Benin Republic propelled him to 22 goals for the national team, eclipsing Yakubu’s tally of 21.
Victor Osimhen celebrates his goal during the 2025 AFCON Qualifiers between Nigeria and Benin Republic. Photo | IG
What makes this even more remarkable is that the 25 year-old achieved this milestone despite coming on as a substitute and not having played professional football since May.
In just six minutes after stepping onto the pitch, Osimhen found the back of the net, once again proving why he is regarded as one of Africa’s most lethal forwards.
His goal not only contributed to a convincing win for the Super Eagles but also edged him closer to an even greater goal-scoring milestone.
Osimhen’s Journey to the Top
Osimhen’s rise on the all-time scorers’ chart has been nothing short of meteoric. At just 25 years old, he has already matched Segun Odegbami’s 22-goal record, but with far fewer games.
While Odegbami needed 46 caps to reach his tally, Osimhen has done so in just 36 appearances – a testament to his incredible goal-scoring efficiency.
His journey to this point has been filled with challenges, from battling injuries to overcoming off-field distractions, but Osimhen has always risen above them. His ability to score in crucial moments, underlines his importance to the national team.
Closing in on Rashidi Yekini’s Record
The next name in Osimhen’s sights is Nigeria’s all-time leading goalscorer, the legendary Rashidi Yekini, who netted 37 goals in 58 appearances.
Rashidi Yekini is Nigeria’s all-time record goal scorer at international level.
While that record may still seem distant, it’s well within reach for Osimhen, who can’t stop scoring.
If he continues at this pace, Osimhen could potentially break Yekini’s record with fewer appearances.
Nigeria’s All-Time Top Scorers List
Here’s a look at Nigeria’s top 10 all-time leading scorers, with Osimhen now firmly in the mix:
1. Rashidi Yekini – 37 goals (58 appearances)
2. Segun Odegbami – 22 goals (46 appearances)
3. Victor Osimhen – 22 goals (36 appearances)
4. Yakubu Aiyegbeni – 21 goals (57 appearances)
5. Ikechukwu Uche – 19 goals (46 appearances)
6. Obafemi Martins – 18 goals (42 appearances)
7. Sunday Oyarekhua – 17 goals (28 appearances)
8. Samson Siasia – 16 goals (51 appearances)
9. Odion Ighalo – 16 goals (37 appearances)
10. Ahmed Musa – 16 goals (108 appearances).
Osimhen’s achievement is particularly significant considering he still has many years ahead in his international career.
If Nigeria qualifies for both the upcoming AFCON and the World Cup, it’s highly likely that Osimhen will surpass Yekini’s record, solidifying his place in Nigerian football history.
With AFCON 2025 in sight, Osimhen could break Yekini’s record before the tournament is even over.
