Osimhen handed captain’s armband for AFCON clash

Victor Osimhen will lead Nigeria against Morocco in their opening game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, with the Super Eagles confirming the Napoli striker as captain for the high-profile fixture in Rabat. The decision underlines Nigeria’s reliance on their star forward as they begin their campaign against the tournament hosts.

Head coach José Peseiro said the choice was driven by Osimhen’s influence in the squad and his recent impact, having been directly involved in more than 25 goals for club and country over the past year. “He sets the standard every day,” Peseiro said. “The players listen to him.”

Osimhen, who has worn the armband before, described the role as a major responsibility. “Leading Nigeria at AFCON means everything to me,” he said. “We are ready for Morocco and the pressure that comes with it.”

Morocco enter the match as favourites on home soil, but Peseiro stressed confidence in his team. “We respect their quality,” he added, “but we believe in our strength.”