Former Barcelona winger Emmanuel Amuneke has expressed his admiration for Victor Osimhen, describing the Super Eagles striker as a natural leader and urging him to win the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Nigeria.

Amuneke, who played a crucial role in Osimhen's development at the U17 level, praised the striker's leadership qualities and consistency, describing him as a player who has carried the same winning mentality since his youth days.

Speaking in an interview with Victor Modo, Amuneke hailed the attitude and character of the Galatasaray forward.

 "One thing I can always tell you is that when I look back at Osimhen, the same character he is demonstrating as a leader, is what he has done over the years," he said.

The former Nigerian international added that achieving success at the AFCON would cement Osimhen's legacy.

"And I am glad and I would like to see him winning the AFCON. I would love to see Osimhen winning the AFCON with his group.

"They can be good players but if at the end of the day you never achieved something, people can always say, it is a good team but they never achieved anything.

"I would love them to win the AFCON but they have to win it by fighting and earning it not by talking."

The Super Eagles began their AFCON campaign with a 2-1 victory over Tanzania and currently sit second in Group C with three points.

Group leaders Tunisia, who also have three points following a 3-1 win over Uganda, hold the advantage on goal difference.

Nigeria will face Tunisia in a crucial encounter on Saturday night, a match that could determine the group winner.

Adeyemi Adewale