Former African Footballer of the Year and Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen has disclosed what his encounter with football legend, Cristiano Ronaldo has taught him as a footballer.
The Napoli forward who shared the story about the encounter described the moment as one of the most defining experiences of his career.
In the interview that has since gone viral, Osimhen recounted playing against Ronaldo and being starstruck at the sight of the five-time Ballon d’Or winner. Determined to capture the memory, he said he approached Ronaldo after the match and requested a photo.
“I said to him after the match: ‘Cris, I want to take a picture with you.’ He said: ‘Come to the dressing room.’”
However, what followed left Osimhen stunned. Upon arriving, he was informed Ronaldo had headed straight to the gym. While waiting with legendary goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, Osimhen watched in awe as the Portuguese forward trained intensely for over an hour — even after playing a full match.
“He came in dripping with sweat… and still took the time to take that picture with me. Then he said, ‘No matter what, keep going.’”
The Nigerian international said that moment taught him an unforgettable lesson in discipline, work ethic, and humility, praising Ronaldo’s relentless drive even in the twilight of his career.
“Talent is worthless if you don’t put effort into it. That’s why Ronaldo has inspired so many of us,” Osimhen added.
The Napoli striker ended on a light-hearted note, admitting he would have settled for a 10-0 loss as long as he got that iconic photo.
