Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen, has provided insight into his decision to let captain William Troost-Ekong take a penalty during Nigeria’s 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victory over Ivory Coast on Thursday.
Osimhen earned a penalty after being fouled in the box during the match. Despite being the designated number one penalty taker for the Super Eagles, many anticipated Napoli’s attacker to take the spot-kick against the host nation. Surprisingly, Troost-Ekong stepped forward and successfully converted the penalty, securing a 1-0 win for the Super Eagles.
In response to questions about the decision, whether it was his choice or a directive from head coach Jose Peseiro, Osimhen explained during the post-match press conference:
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“It was the coach. He wanted me to take it, but I have to respect it; he’s the captain. For me, I really don’t mind who takes the penalty or who scores for the team. I want the team to win. I want the team to progress, so this is the most important thing for me.”
Osimhen now looks forward to leading Nigeria to victory in their final Group A encounter against Guinea-Bissau on Monday.