‘Omo, Osayi for right back today’ — Injured Boniface takes time out of recovery to hail Super Eagles star’s display against Algeria

‘Omo, Osayi for right back today’ — Injured Boniface takes time out of recovery to hail Super Eagles star’s display against Algeria

Ayoola Kelechi 20:19 - 10.01.2026

Full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel has rightly been praised as one of Nigeria's best players in the 2-0 win over Algeria

Injured Super Eagles striker Victor Boniface took a moment away from his recovery to applaud Bright Osayi-Samuel after Nigeria’s impressive quarter-final win at AFCON 2025.

The Birmingham City full-back delivered a standout performance against Algeria, earning glowing praise from his sidelined teammate.

Osayi-Samuel shines in Aina’s absence against Algeria

With regular right-back Ola Aina ruled out through injury, Osayi-Samuel has stepped up admirably for the Super Eagles, starting every game of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 campaign so far.

Usually viewed as Aina’s deputy, the energetic defender has used his extended run in the team to underline his importance to Eric Chelle’s side.

Against Algeria in the 2–0 quarter-final victory, Osayi-Samuel was one of Nigeria’s most influential performers.

He recorded one crucial block, two clearances, six recoveries and won seven duels, while also making several attacking runs that repeatedly unsettled the Algerian defence.

His all-action display on the right flank provided both defensive solidity and attacking thrust, helping Nigeria control key moments of the contest.

Boniface’s simple message from the sidelines

Watching from afar due to a serious knee injury, Victor Boniface made sure Osayi-Samuel’s performance did not go unnoticed.

Taking to X, the Bayer Leverkusen striker summed up his admiration in a short but powerful message: “Omo. Osayi for right back today.”

Boniface’s praise comes during a difficult period for the striker, who is currently sidelined with a knee problem and facing a long spell away from football.

Despite his own struggles, the 25-year-old has continued to show support for his Super Eagles teammates as they push deeper into the tournament.

Osayi-Samuel’s display against Algeria not only strengthened Nigeria’s march at AFCON 2025, but also reinforced the growing competition for places in the Super Eagles defence, a situation that can only benefit Chelle’s side as they chase continental glory.