Defenders Intimidated by Nigeria’s Osimhen – Onyeka

Frank Onyeka has lauded Victor Osimhen as being “on another level” and claims that competing defenders at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) will be “intimidated” by the Nigerian forward.

Both Onyeka and Osimhen are part of a Super Eagles team that aims to redeem themselves following their defeat in the 2023 Afcon final against the Ivory Coast, where they both started.

At the age of 26, Osimhen netted just once during that tournament but now ranks second on Nigeria’s all-time scoring list with 31 goals from 45 matches, only behind the great Rashidi Yekini.

“He’s an incredible player,” Onyeka told BBC Sport Africa when discussing how Osimhen’s stature as one of the best forwards globally might create a psychological edge even before games begin.

“He fights for every single ball, and I believe the defenders feel apprehensive when he’s on the field.” Onyeka emphasized, “Victor is on another level.”

During Osimhen’s absence, the Super Eagles managed to secure only four points from a possible 15 in their ultimately unsuccessful 2026 World Cup qualifying journey.

The team’s performance also faltered in their World Cup playoff against the DR Congo when Osimhen had to depart at halftime.

“Not having Victor in the second half altered our game,” Onyeka acknowledged.

He further recounted a Congolese player’s remarks, stating that Osimhen’s departure allowed their defenders to relax, thus changing the game dynamic.

Onyeka’s Focus on Mental Preparation

Although Onyeka has been crucial for Nigeria over recent years, he has faced challenges in securing a starting position with Brentford.

This season, under new manager Keith Andrews, he has yet to make a Premier League start and spent the previous season on loan at Augsburg in the Bundesliga.

The 27-year-old revealed that he focused on mental conditioning during his time in Germany, incorporating mindfulness practices into his routine.

“It’s beneficial because when you’re feeling stressed, you focus on remaining calm and relaxed,” he shared.

“I try to engage in mindfulness every day, especially before games to prepare myself. I take time in my room before heading to the stadium and even during halftime to concentrate on my breathing, ensuring I feel centered.”

Despite gaining more playing minutes with Augsburg, Onyeka did not score in any competition across 34 appearances.

Nonetheless, his goals played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s World Cup qualification efforts, including a last-minute strike against Benin, which propelled the team into the playoffs, along with another goal against DR Congo.

“I’ve been aiming to add more goals to my game,” he expressed. “During my time in Augsburg, it was a significant topic of discussion. I always strive to move forward and find the back of the net.”

“It’s disheartening that we didn’t qualify for the upcoming World Cup, considering the talent within the squad. This serves as a motivation for us to pursue an Afcon victory and bring the trophy home.”

Chelle: A Supportive Coach

Onyeka also highlighted his productive conversations about goals with Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle, the former Mali international who took over in January and revitalized the Super Eagles’ quest for World Cup qualification.

“I believe he came in and transformed everything – our playing style, setup, and his philosophy are impressive,” he said. “He’s a nurturing coach who communicates well with the players, often injecting humor into the sessions, which makes a substantial difference compared to previous management.”

However, Chelle faces challenges following the retirement announcement of his captain William Troost-Ekong, made just before the Nations Cup despite his inclusion in the provisional squad, alongside the absence of another center-back, Benjamin Frederick.

The 20-year-old, who has garnered attention while in the Nigeria lineup under Chelle, sustained a knee injury during his loan in Belgium and will be sidelined for the tournament in Morocco.

“This is a significant loss for us, as Benjamin had integrated seamlessly into the team and earned everyone’s admiration,” said Onyeka.

“He has performed commendably in every game. We anticipated him being a strong asset heading into the tournament.”

Reflecting on his upbringing, Onyeka admitted he did not engage much with past Afcons, but he recognizes the “massive” influence the team’s results have on fans back home.

“Competing for Nigeria comes with pressure, but it’s something we are accustomed to. Seeing the reactions from fans after defeats can be frustrating, yet I understand their passion because football is something they cherish dearly.”

“Football unites people, and whenever Nigeria plays, there is a wave of interest and excitement.”