Victor Osimhen has reached out to Victor Boniface with an encouraging message following the latter's failure to find the net during the Super Eagles' victory over Libya.
Despite his recent struggles on the international stage, the 23-year-old has been urged to remain patient and confident that his goals are on the way.
Osimhen, who is sidelined due to a muscle injury, was absent from Nigeria's squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Libya.
In his absence, Boniface was handed the starting role, ahead of the likes of Taiwo Awoniyi and Kelechi Iheanacho. However, he has struggled to fill in for the Galatasaray man, and once more came up short against Libya.
Osimhen offers reassurance amid Boniface goal drought
On the night, it was Lazio midfielder Fisayo Dele-Bashiru who came to the rescue for the Super Eagles, scoring a decisive goal in the 87th minute to secure a narrow 1-0 win in Uyo.
Boniface, who made his national team debut in September 2023, has yet to score in a competitive match for Nigeria despite his sparkling form for reigning German champions Bayer Leverkusen.
With many criticising his output, Osimhen has leapt to the defence of his fellow centre-forward.
Osimhen's words of support come at a critical time for Boniface, who has faced mounting pressure from fans.
However, the under-fire striker has maintained he is unfazed by the pressure of filling the gap left by Nigeria's top striker. Speaking after the Libya game, he stated that his focus was on the team's collective success rather than personal achievements.