AFCON 2025: Nigeria Striker Victor Osimhen fires warning to Morocco ahead of semi-final clash

Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has issued a confident declaration ahead of the Super Eagles' 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semi-final, stating his team is "far from timid" as they prepare to face tournament hosts Morocco on Wednesday, January 14.

The warning follows a commanding individual and team performance that saw Nigeria defeat Algeria 2-0 in the quarter-finals. Osimhen was instrumental in the victory, scoring the opening goal with a powerful header before turning provider to set up strike partner Akor Adams for the second. His all-action display earned him the Man of the Match award.

Speaking to CAF after the match, Osimhen praised the team's collective effort and readiness for the challenge ahead. "We prepared well for this game, and I'm so happy about the team's performance," he said. "Playing this type of team, we had to bring our A-game...we gave our everything, and we deserved to win."

Looking forward to the high-pressure clash against the host nation, Osimhen acknowledged Morocco's quality but emphasised Nigeria's fearless mentality. "We are going to play against the hosts, and we know how they are; we know they have a lot of quality players," he stated, before adding firmly, "but I don't think we are the kind of team that is timid."

Morocco advanced to the semi-finals with a 2-0 victory over Cameroon, setting up a blockbuster encounter between two of the continent's strongest sides. With Osimhen in prolific form and the Super Eagles brimming with confidence, the stage is set for a monumental battle for a place in the AFCON final.