Super Eagles defender Kenneth Omeruo has emphasized the importance of star striker Victor Osimhen experiencing the FIFA World Cup, calling it a milestone every top player should reach.
Osimhen played a crucial role in Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, scoring twice in their 2-0 victory over Rwanda. The win marked the Super Eagles’ first in the qualifiers, moving them to fourth place with six points.
The Galatasaray defender, who represented Nigeria at the 2014 and 2018 World Cups, shared his thoughts ahead of their next qualifier against Zimbabwe on Tuesday.
“Just a few players in the Super Eagles have been to the World Cup, and they understand the importance and the amazing atmosphere,” Omeruo said on Brila FM.
“For a player like Victor Osimhen, he has to be at the World Cup. He has to experience it. I have spoken to him, and he knows how important the game against Zimbabwe is.”
Nigeria failed to qualify for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar after losing to Ghana on away goals in the playoffs. Osimhen, who was already a key player then, missed out on the opportunity to play on football’s biggest stage.
Omeruo, however, remains confident that the Super Eagles will not take their upcoming games lightly.
“The players are not going there (against Zimbabwe) to joke, and I believe they will get six points from the two games.”
With Osimhen leading the charge, Nigeria will be aiming for back-to-back wins as they push to secure their place at the 2026 World Cup.
