Osimhen Sets Sights on World Cup Glory: "We Will Qualify – That's the Target" Ahead of Crucial DR Congo Showdown

 Victor Osimhen, the talismanic striker for Nigeria's Super Eagles and Galatasaray, has issued a resounding declaration of intent ahead of Sunday's high-stakes CAF 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying playoff final against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Fresh off a heroic brace in extra time that propelled Nigeria to a 4-1 semifinal triumph over Gabon on Thursday, Osimhen affirmed that securing qualification for the expanded North American tournament is non-negotiable.

In a passionate post-match interview with SportsRation, the 26-year-old reigning African Footballer of the Year emphasized the team's unyielding resolve: "We will qualify for the 2026 World Cup—that's the target. We've come too far, fought too hard, and with the talent in this squad, there's no excuse not to make it happen." Osimhen's words come at a pivotal moment, as Nigeria—absent from the global stage since 2018—stands on the brink of earning a spot in the intercontinental playoffs next March, a final gateway to the 48-team extravaganza hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

The Super Eagles' path to this juncture has been nothing short of dramatic. Osimhen's late double against Gabon, following a resilient comeback sparked by substitutes Chidera Ejuke and Moses Simon, not only avenged a prior setback but also injected fresh momentum into the camp. With key midfielder Wilfred Ndidi sidelined by suspension, Osimhen is poised to captain the side at the Stade Prince Moulay Abdallah, shouldering the leadership mantle alongside defender William Troost-Ekong. "Victor's not just a goalscorer; he's the heartbeat of this team," Troost-Ekong told Soccernet NG. "What sets him apart is his hunger—it's infectious, and it'll carry us through against DR Congo."

DR Congo, who scraped into the final with a dramatic stoppage-time winner from captain Chancel Mbemba against Cameroon, present a formidable challenge under coach Sebastien Desabre. Yet Osimhen remains unfazed, drawing on his blistering form—five goals across Nigeria's last two qualifiers—to rally his compatriots. "This isn't just about me; it's about every Super Eagle stepping up. The fans back home deserve to see us at the World Cup, building on our legacy as five-time participants," he added, referencing Nigeria's storied history in the tournament.

Head coach Eric Chelle echoed Osimhen's optimism, praising the forward's clutch performances: "Victor's extra-time magic against Gabon was a statement. Now, we channel that fire to finish the job." The match, kicking off at 8:00 PM WAT, promises edge-of-the-seat action as both nations vie for African supremacy in the playoffs. A victory would thrust Nigeria into the March intercontinental showdowns, potentially in Mexico, where one more win secures a historic return.

As the Super Eagles fine-tune preparations in Rabat's neutral confines, Osimhen's clarion call has ignited national fervor. From the streets of Lagos to diaspora outposts worldwide, Nigerian football faithful are united in anticipation. "Qualification isn't a hope—it's our destiny," Osimhen concluded, his eyes fixed firmly on the horizon of World Cup dreams.