January 30, (THEWILL) – Nigeria’s star striker, Victor Osimhen, has been repeatedly selected for random doping tests by the Confederation of African Football during the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast. The Napoli forward, who has been one of the standout performers for the Super Eagles at the tournament, has raised eyebrows among fans and media with his energetic displays.
Osimhen, who won the CAF Best Player of the Year award in 2023, has helped Nigeria reach the quarter-finals of AFCON, scoring a goal and providing an assist in four matches. He was instrumental in Nigeria’s 2-0 win over Cameroon in the round of 16, setting up Ademola Lookman for the opener and causing problems for the Indomitable Lions’ defence throughout the game.
However, his impressive form has also attracted the attention of CAF’s anti-doping department, which has picked him for multiple drug tests after the matches. According to reliable photojournalist Pooja Media, Osimhen has been tested more than any other Nigerian player in the competition. He posted on his X account: “CAF has randomly picked Victor Osimhen MULTIPLE times after games at AFCON for dope tests.”
While the tests are standard procedures to ensure fair play and prevent the use of banned substances, some fans have speculated that CAF is targeting Osimhen because of his exceptional performances. Others have joked that CAF should also test Nigerian youths running in traffic, implying that Osimhen’s speed and stamina are natural and not enhanced by drugs.
Contrary to rumours circulating on various social media platforms, Osimhen’s first dope test happened after Nigeria’s 1-0 victory over Guinea-Bissau in the group stage, not after the Cameroon match. Sources reveal that two Cameroonian players Nigeria’s Simon Moses and William Troost-Ekong have also been tested. Osimhen will hope to continue his fine form when Nigeria face Angola in the quarter-finals on Friday, aiming to secure a spot in the semi-finals and move closer to their fourth AFCON title.
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
