A look back at how Victor Osimhen’s dominant 10-goal performance in the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup set a new tournament record and propelled the Nigerian Golden Eaglets to glory.
Ahead of the next world youth tournament, FIFA has paid a special tribute to Nigerian superstar Victor Osimhen, celebrating his legendary display at the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Chile, where he scored an unprecedented 10 goals to lead the Golden Eaglets to the title.
Osimhen’s goalscoring prowess saw him break the record for the most goals in a single edition of the competition, firmly establishing his name on the world stage.
The Record-Shattering Performance
Osimhen’s run in Chile was nothing short of spectacular. He played in all seven matches for the eventual champions, netting an astonishing 10 goals, including two successful penalty kicks.
This incredible tally surpassed the previous record of nine goals, jointly held by players like Siniša Pejčinović (1987) and Florent Sinama Pongolle (2001). His consistent brilliance ensured Nigeria’s path to a record fifth U-17 World Cup title.
)
Victor Osimhen scored 10 goals in 7 matches at the 2015 edition of the FIFA U17 World Cup. (Photo Credit: Imago)
FIFA’s recognition came via a social media tribute, where they shared throwback videos compiling all 10 goals across their official accounts, accompanied by the caption: “10 goals in 7 matches for Nigeria. Victor Osimhen at the #U17WC,” reintroducing his youthful heroics to millions of fans around the world.
A Star is Born
The 2015 U-17 World Cup served as the definitive launchpad for the young striker. Osimhen’s goals showed a complete forward: pace, aerial ability, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing.
His contributions weren’t just volume; they were decisive, with the striker scoring in every match except the group stage fixture against the USA. His goals included a hat-trick against Australia in the Round of 16 and one in the 2-0 final victory over Mali.
Osimhen’s sensational form immediately secured him a move to Europe, starting his professional journey with Wolfsburg in Germany.
)
Osimhen is now Super Eagles’ second highest scorer in history. (Photo Credit: Imago)
His subsequent career trajectory, featuring successful spells at Lille and currently as the star striker for SSC Napoli in Serie A, where he led the team to a historic Scudetto title, can be traced directly back to his U-17 World Cup exploits. For Nigeria, the success reaffirmed their status as a powerhouse in youth football.
Victor Osimhen’s 10-goal record from 2015 remains a formidable benchmark for any young striker entering the FIFA U-17 World Cup.
)
Super Eagles main man, Victor Osimhen. (Photo Credit: Imago)
FIFA’s timely tribute highlights a key chapter in the Super Eagles star’s career, reminding fans of the sheer goalscoring force he was even as a teenager.
