Nottingham Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi has expressed confidence and calmness amid competition from fellow Nigerian forwards Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. Speaking on the “Humble Boots” podcast, Awoniyi dismissed any sense of rivalry, stating that his focus remains on self-improvement rather than trying to outshine his compatriots.
“I don’t see it as needing to knock anyone off. Football is about timing and momentum. If it’s your moment, it’s your moment,” Awoniyi said. He emphasized that selection for the Super Eagles isn’t something players can control, adding, “You can’t decide to be in the starting eleven. The only thing you can control is how you work on yourself and improve.”
Awoniyi, who last featured for Nigeria in their 1-0 win over Libya in Uyo, insisted that he is solely focused on becoming the best version of himself. He remains optimistic about his chances of making the AFCON squad, trusting that his performance with Nottingham Forest will speak for itself. “I don’t believe I need to be better than Osimhen or Boniface to go to AFCON. I just need to keep working, get more minutes, score goals. That’s what will take me there,” he concluded.
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Editorial
Taiwo Awoniyi’s calmness amid competition with Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface is refreshing and mature. In an era where players often compare themselves to others, Awoniyi’s perspective is grounded in self-improvement rather than rivalry. His approach reflects confidence—not in the noise of headlines, but in his own ability to grow and perform when it matters.
For Nigeria, this mindset is invaluable. In a crowded forward line, having a player focused on development rather than disruption creates healthy competition. Awoniyi’s mentality could serve as a blueprint for young players aiming to rise through the ranks without being distracted by the success of others.
If he keeps delivering for Nottingham Forest, the Super Eagles may find themselves with an in-form, mentally strong forward come AFCON. It’s not just about being the best; it’s about being ready when the call comes.
Did You Know?
- Taiwo Awoniyi won the UEFA Youth League with Liverpool’s U23 side in 2014, although he never made a senior appearance for the Reds.
- He was the top scorer for Union Berlin in the 2021/22 Bundesliga season, netting 15 goals in 31 appearances.
- Awoniyi has represented Nigeria at every youth level—U17, U20, and U23—before making his senior debut in 2021.
- His goal against Libya in Uyo marked his second for the Super Eagles since his debut.
- Despite being a striker, Awoniyi also played as a winger during his time at FSV Frankfurt in the German second division.
