‘I have the ability to do it’ - Osimhen looking forward to becoming Nigeria's all-time leading goalscorer

Yekini, who famously scored Nigeria's first-ever World Cup goal in a 3-0 victory over Bulgaria in 1994, set a high bar with 37 goals in 62 appearances for the national team. 

However, Osimhen is now on the verge of eclipsing that long-standing record, having netted 35 goals in just 46 matches for his country.

With a crucial AFCON 2025 semi-final clash against Morocco looming, the Galatasaray forward has a prime opportunity to write his name in Nigerian football history.

Initially downplaying the record, the 27-year-old's focus was on helping the Super Eagles win AFCON after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. However, his four goals in Morocco have since boosted his confidence.

In an interview with CBS Sports Golazo, Osimhen acknowledged the growing talk around the record and his potential to break it.

"To be honest, initially, I didn't know about the record, but when it started coming out, a few friends of mine showed me and tried to motivate me, telling me I could do it," he said.

"I know that I have the ability to do it because of the kinds of talent I have around me in the national team, but at the same time, it's amazing to be up there with the greats."

The 2023 CAF Player of the Year also reflected on the significance of being mentioned alongside Nigerian football icons who inspired him.

"To know that what I'm doing now, I dreamt of as a young child, and watching the Super Eagles play... although I didn't watch Mr Yekini, bless him, but he's done something that inspired a lot of people," Osimhen explained. 

"People like Odion Ighalo under Gernot Rohr, as well as Obafemi Martins. To be up there and on the verge of breaking the record is something I'll never forget in my life."

He concluded, "I'll always hold it in high esteem. It's an honour to be in the same conversation as the great Rashidi Yekini."

Osimhen will aim to close the gap on the 28-year-old record when he leads the line for Nigeria against the Atlas Lions in the highly anticipated semi-final.