The Galatasaray forward helped Nigeria beat Algeria 2–0 in the quarter-finals of the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations at the Marrakech Stadium, scoring one goal and providing an assist.
Osimhen’s performance took him closer to Yekini’s long-standing goal record for the three-time African champions, but he played down talk of chasing the record.
Speaking to the media after receiving the Man of the Match award, he stated that breaking records would not diminish Yekini’s legacy as Nigeria’s greatest striker of all time.
"No, not at all," he said when asked if chasing records puts pressure on him.
"I’ve said it countless times, whether I equal or surpass the record doesn’t matter. The late Yekini will always be the best striker the Super Eagles have ever had.
"I’ve also been inspired by players like Odion Ighalo to give my best for the team. That doesn’t take anything away from Yekini’s legacy.
"I’m just doing my best, and it’s amazing to be part of the Super Eagles' history. My goal is also to win something important for my country, and with the support of my teammates, I’m on the right path."
Despite his heroics against the North Africans, the former African Player of the Year insists the credit belongs to the whole team, acknowledging his teammates' key contributions to the victory.
"First and foremost, I want to congratulate the whole team for their performance against a strong Algerian side with quality players," he continued.
"I just try to do my job, fight for the team, score goals, and provide assists and I’m happy both worked out for me on (Saturday).
"But I don’t want to take the credit alone; the entire team deserves the praise. So, I congratulate everyone for the win."
Unlike the 2023 AFCON, where he scored just once as the Super Eagles finished as runners-up, Osimhen has already netted four goals in five matches this tournament.
When asked what he has done differently this time, he added: "As a player, I think I have grown a lot because I always reflect on the mistakes I’ve made and look for ways to improve.
"Now, I feel much more confident in the way I play, thanks to the support of my teammates. For me, it’s not just about goals or assists; it’s about winning something with this squad.
"I believe we’re on the right path, but it won’t be easy. From the last AFCON to this one, I’ve improved a lot both as a player and as a person."
Nigeria will take on Morocco in their semi-final clash on Wednesday at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat. There, Osimhen will be looking to add to his goal tally as he continues his push for the Golden Boot.
