Breaking The Curse? Udeze Confident Osimhen Will Score Vs Tunisia

Former Nigeria defender Ifeanyi Udeze has expressed confidence that Victor Osimhen will soon end his goal drought at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), predicting the striker will score when the Super Eagles face Tunisia on Saturday.

Osimhen failed to score in Nigeria’s opening win over Tanzania, missing several clear opportunities and extending a frustrating personal record at the tournament. He has now netted just once in nine AFCON appearances across three editions, a statistic that has shadowed him despite his overall influence on matches.

Udeze, however, insists there is no cause for concern. He believes the goals will come once Osimhen finds his rhythm, noting the striker’s prolific form outside the continental competition. Osimhen has scored 12 goals for Galatasaray this season and eight for Nigeria in 2025.

“He didn’t score against Tanzania, but the goals will come,” Udeze told Footy-Africa. “It’s not a problem. He just needs to stay calm, and the goals will follow. He is an excellent player and a natural goal scorer.”

The former defender added that Osimhen’s reaction after the opener demonstrated his strong mentality. “He was clearly frustrated and angry that he didn’t score against Tanzania, but hopefully he finds the net against Tunisia and the goals begin to flow,” he said.

Nigeria and Tunisia clash in a pivotal Group match at the 40,000-capacity Fez Stadium on Saturday. Both teams began their campaigns with victories—Tunisia edging Uganda—and another win would secure early passage to the round of 16.

Udeze expects a tightly contested match but believes Nigeria’s attacking strength, led by Osimhen, could prove decisive if the opportunities are converted.