'An important player' - Peseiro highlights the qualities of Osimhen that make him Super Eagles main man

Jose Peseiro has highlighted the qualities of Victor Osimhen that make him a fundamental player for the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. 

The reigning African Footballer of the Year has managed just one goal in Ivory Coast but has caught the eye with his work rate, physicality and he's a nightmare for opposition defenders, which makes nonsense of the fact that he has struggled to convert his chances in the ongoing tournament. 

Osimhen won penalties converted by William Troost-Ekong against Ivory Coast and South Africa, forced an own goal against Equatorial Guinea and provided the assist for Lookman's first goal against Cameroon. 

Peseiro noted that Osimhen's combination of work rate, defensive contribution and selflessness make him the Super Eagles talisman but pointed out that the Super Eagles number 9 is often targeted by defenders. 

When asked about the impact of Osimhen in the group and how fundamental he is for the team,  Peseiro said at today's pre-match press conference: "If you watch the matches, he fights for us, he doesn't play like a star, works and defends. 

"He attacks, fight the opponents, he opens spaces for us. He does maximum sacrifice for the team. 

"He does the best everyday because he knows he's an important player, for that he suffers many fouls, pressure and stress but he knows our team, captains, everybody help him."

Peseiro went on to reveal that the Super Eagles is not all about Osimhen and highlighted the power of teamwork. 

"The match is collective, no one can win alone. No one can do everything alone. He knows that, we know that, for that we created a collective team to fight together."

Although Nigeria have been conservative throughout the tournament, Osimhen has registered 24 shots, more than any other player at the 2023 AFCON. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

Copyright ANS

All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from allnigeriasoccer.com