Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi has lavished praise on Victor Osimhen, describing the Galatasaray star as a dream player for any team.

Alongside the equally impressive centre-back Calvin Bassey, Osimhen has started all six matches contested by the Super Eagles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

The former Africa Footballer of the Year has been in outstanding form, contributing four goals and two assists, while also playing a key role in pressing opponents when out of possession.

Osimhen captained the Super Eagles in their match against Mozambique and donned the armband once again during the crucial semifinal against Morocco, with Ndidi suspended.

Beyond individual brilliance, Ndidi revealed that Osimhen's standards have become a benchmark for the entire squad under manager Eric Chelle. 

Speaking at the pre-match press conference before the third place playoff against Egypt, Ndidi told reporters: "Osimhen is one of the best strikers in the world. If you see someone like Osimhen in front of you, of course he carries the team , he's a great player. We'll miss him if he's not on the pitch, so that's normal,"

"Since the coach came, he has made everyone feel they have to reach Osimhen's standard. He's a wonderful striker, amazing if he’s in your team. He's like three strikers in one.

"Eric Chelle has made it a team thing. Watch out for this team in the next couple of years."

Osimhen did not take a penalty in Wednesday's shootout loss to Morocco as he was substituted in the closing stages of extra time due to an ankle injury.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel