Osimhen Explains the Mindset Behind His Extra-Time Brace After Late Miss Against Gabon
Written by Alonge Akinlolu on 14 — 11
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen says his reaction to a costly late miss against Gabon was the fuel that powered his remarkable extra-time resurgence in Nigeria’s 4–1 triumph.
The Galatasaray forward squandered what would have been the winning goal in regulation time, but instead of allowing frustration to set in, he switched into what he described as a “correction mindset.”
Speaking to Cali Sport in Rabat, Morocco, Osimhen said strikers must learn to navigate both glory and disappointment.
“As a striker, there are days I score unbelievable goals, and there are days I miss chances people expect me to put away. But that doesn’t take anything away from my ability,” he said.
Osimhen revealed that immediately after the miss, he addressed his teammates in the dressing room.
“I told them I was sorry and promised I would fix it in extra time. I’ve played this game long enough to know that if the match is still on, another opportunity will come and you must be ready.”
Osimhen also praised the team effort behind the victory.
“I’m happy I redeemed myself, but full credit to my teammates for the assists and the mentality we all showed. This team refused to give up.”
The Super Eagles now shift their focus to Sunday’s CAF 2026 FIFA World Cup playoff final, where they will face DR Congo, who advanced after overpowering Cameroon in the other semifinal.
