AFCON 2025: Dont rely on Oshimhen - Former Super Eagles star warns Chelle

As Nigeria sets its sights on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), former Super Eagles forward Benedict Akwuegbu has advised the national team’s coaching staff to rethink their attacking approach and avoid excessive dependence on star striker Victor Osimhen.

The three-time African champions are preparing to kick off their AFCON qualifying campaign in Group C, where they will face Tanzania, Tunisia, and Uganda.

Akwuegbu remains confident in Nigeria’s overall quality and chances, he believes tactical adjustments are necessary for sustained success.

“I’m optimistic that the team will excel; we just need to keep hope alive,” Akwuegbu told Footy Africa.

He added, “We must continue to support the NFF and the entire team. We have the players and the quality needed to win the tournament.”

Despite his optimism, the former international striker offered a clear warning to the coaching crew, stressing that Nigeria’s current style of play could make the team predictable.

He added, “My only advice to the coach is to adopt more varied tactics and a different style of play. The team currently relies too heavily on Osimhen, and whenever he doesn’t play or score, the team tends to struggle.”

Akwuegbu also noted that opposing teams are increasingly aware of Nigeria’s main attacking strengths and are adjusting their defensive strategies accordingly.

“Many countries are now familiar with our approach and will focus on marking Osimhen and Lookman out of the game,” he explained.

He added, “It’s important for the coach to develop a system in which goals can come from any player and where there are multiple match winners, as this is an area the team currently lacks.”