Nigeria forward, Victor Osimhen has paid tribute to Rashidi Yekini, describing the late legend as the country's greatest-ever striker, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
Osimhen's goal in Thursday's 1-1 draw with Benin Republic in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier took his tally to 23, level with Segun Odegbami in second place on Nigeria's all-time scoring list.
However, Yekini's record of 37 goals remains the benchmark, and Osimhen is reluctant to focus solely on breaking it.
"If I equal it, I equal it," Osimhen said. "But that doesn't take away the fact that Rashidi Yekini is the greatest striker for the Super Eagles."
Osimhen will have another opportunity to close the gap on Yekini's record when Nigeria host Rwanda on Monday.
The 25-year-old Napoli striker has consistently spoken about his admiration for Yekini, who won the African Footballer of the Year award in 1993.
Yekini's legacy continues to inspire a new generation of Nigerian players, and Osimhen's humility in acknowledging his predecessor's achievements has been widely praised.
By Olujimi Dare Ogun