World Cup Playoffs: Osimhen Reflects On Missed Chances Against Gabon

World Cup Playoffs: Osimhen Reflects On Missed Chances Against Gabon

Sampson Adedeji

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen has reflected on his missed chances in Nigeria’s dramatic 4–1 extra-time victory over the Panthers of Gabon in Thursday’s World Cup playoff semifinal, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Although the Super Eagles forward eventually found the back of the net twice in extra time to seal the win, Osimhen admitted he could have decided the match much earlier.

“As a striker, sometimes I score a goal that no one believes; but I could also sometimes lose the one that people think I’m going to score. That doesn’t take away what I can do,” Osimhen told Cali Sports.

Reflecting on the missed opportunities in regulation time, the forward highlighted the mental strength required to stay focused and deliver when it matters.

“I’m a professional player, and I’ve been in the game for a long time. I’ve played against some very intimidating teams where I miss good opportunities. Sometimes it happens like that.”

Osimhen also revealed the conversation he had with his teammates after the missed chances.

 “I always have this mentality that even if I miss a good opportunity, so long as the game keeps going on, I will try to make sure I correct it by still scoring later. That’s what I always tell my teammates. We have to keep trying. So, I first told them I’m sorry and then I promised that I was going to correct it in extra time.”

The striker went on to praise the unity and resilience within the squad.

“I’m happy that I did it, and kudos to my teammates who gave me the assists to score the two goals. I’m also happy about the mentality of the team, all of us.”

Osimhen and the Super Eagles will now turn their focus to Sunday’s winner-takes-all playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo, where a ticket to the March 2026 Inter-Continental Playoffs will be at stake.