- Super Eagles celebrate Victor Osimhen in Abu Dhabi camp, honoring him as the first Nigerian since 1999 to win CAF POTY
- The team’s coordinator, Patrick Pascal, leads the celebration, expressing collective pride and admiration for Osimhen’s historic achievement
Super Eagles players and coaches gathered in their Abu Dhabi camp to officially honour Victor Osimhen for clinching the coveted men’s African Player of the Year (POTY) award. Osimhen’s achievement marked a historic moment as he became the first Nigerian since Nwankwo Kanu in 1999 to claim the prestigious CAF POTY title.
The celebration unfolded in the team’s Abu Dhabi camp, where the Super Eagles are currently preparing for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cote d’Ivoire. Osimhen secured the POTY award in December after a stellar performance, propelling Napoli to their first Scudetto title in 33 years and leading the goalscorer chart during the 2023 AFCON qualifying campaign.
The Super Eagles, who hadn’t convened as a team since Osimhen’s triumphant moment at the CAF awards, used the occasion to congratulate their teammate officially. The team’s coordinator, Patrick Pascal, led the celebration, calling out Osimhen for special recognition.
In a video shared on the team’s official account, Pascal welcomed Osimhen, lauding him for the prestigious award and expressing pride on behalf of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF), team officials, and players. The Napoli forward received a standing ovation and resounding applause from his teammates and officials.
“On behalf of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President, Ibrahim Gusau, the board members, the coach, team officials, the Captain, and the players of the Super Eagles, please help me welcome the king, Osimhen,” Pascal announced.
The ceremony included prayers to express gratitude for Osimhen’s victory, highlighting the collective pride and admiration within the Super Eagles camp. Osimhen, as Nigeria’s primary goal outlet, is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s pursuit of a fourth continental crown at the upcoming AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire.
As the best striker on the continent, Osimhen’s exceptional form in 2023 positions him as a key player for the Super Eagles. The tournament, commencing on Jan. 13 and concluding on Feb. 11, holds the promise of more historic moments for Osimhen and the Nigerian national team.