Awoniyi: No Rivalry With Osimhen or Boniface, Just Focus on Growth
Nigerian international and Nottingham Forest striker, Taiwo Awoniyi, has downplayed any rivalry with fellow Super Eagles forwards Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface, emphasizing that his focus remains on personal improvement rather than competition.
In an interview with Humble Boots, Awoniyi made it clear that he isn’t trying to outshine anyone for a spot in the national team.
“I’ve never had the intention of saying, ‘I want to be better than Osimhen’ or ‘I want to be better than Boniface,’” said the 27-year-old. “I just want to be the best version of myself this year. Whether I’m playing or not, it’s about improving myself.”
Awoniyi, a former Liverpool player, stressed that each player’s journey is unique, and trying to surpass others is not his motivation.
“Everyone’s destiny is different. Even if I’m not on the pitch, what I do off the pitch matters. I focus on being ready when the opportunity comes.”
Acknowledging the competitive nature of Nigeria’s forward line, Awoniyi said football is about timing and opportunity rather than displacing others.
“Football is all about competition. If it’s your moment, it’s your moment. I don’t see myself getting knocked off or knocking someone else off. When it’s my time, even the big names will watch me play.”
He added that national team selection is not in the hands of players, but the coaching crew.
“You don’t choose yourself for the Super Eagles. You can’t just say, ‘I want to be the main striker.’ It’s the coach’s decision. Your job is to become the player you aspire to be.”
With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) approaching, Awoniyi remains focused on consistent performance.
“I don’t believe I need to be better than Osimhen or Boniface to get to AFCON. If I get more minutes and score goals, I’ll make it. But ultimately, I’m focused on becoming better for myself.”
