Nigerian football fans have issued strong warnings to Ajax coach John Heitinga after he publicly discussed his plan to “neutralize” Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen in their upcoming Champions League fixture against Galatasaray.
Heitinga explained that his team would have to be “smart” and “well-coordinated” defensively to keep the in-form forward quiet. However, the use of the word “neutralize” didn’t sit well with Nigerian supporters, who fear overly aggressive tactics could leave Osimhen injured just weeks before Nigeria’s crucial FIFA World Cup playoff matches.
With several key players — including Terem Moffi, Cyriel Dessers, Semi Ajayi, and Igoh Ogbu — already sidelined, fans are extra cautious about the fitness of their main goal threat. Osimhen’s recent hat-trick in the qualifiers has made him central to the nation’s hopes of securing a World Cup ticket.
Fans React Online
Social media platforms quickly lit up with passionate reactions from Nigerians.
“Abeg no injure our Starboy, we get match ahead!” one user warned.
“This ‘neutralize’ talk no sound good o, we need am fit!” another said.
“Make una no use rugged play for am, e still get national duty!” wrote a third.
The backlash highlights how vital Osimhen is to Nigeria’s campaign, with fans praying for a solid performance and an injury-free outing. Even Heitinga himself acknowledged Osimhen’s quality, describing him as “a strong, fast, and complete striker.”
