Galatasaray forward Victor Osimhen has spoken about his experience captaining the Super Eagles for the first time following Nigeria’s 3–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday night.
Osimhen, one of three players retained in the starting lineup, was handed the captain’s armband in place of Wilfred Ndidi, who was rested ahead of the knockout stage of the tournament. The win confirmed Nigeria’s qualification for the Round of 16, where they will face Mozambique.
Speaking to journalists in the mixed zone after the match, Osimhen described the moment as emotional and empowering.
“It feels so good. For me, it’s beautiful to try to lead the team,” he said.
“I believe I have gained enough experience to lead the team, and the coach trusts me. So they listen to me just as I listen to them.
“For me, it was a huge pleasure and honor because when I led the team out, they won the game, and we also made it to the Round of 16.”
The striker noted that wearing the armband increased his sense of responsibility on the pitch.
According to him, captaining the side also gave him a deeper sense of belonging, including the responsibility of engaging with match officials and stepping in when teammates required attention during the game.
