OTD: Osimhen beats Eto'o's record en route becoming first African to win Serie A golden boot with record-breaking 26 goals

OTD: Osimhen beats Eto'o's record en route becoming first African to win Serie A golden boot with record-breaking 26 goals

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 08:24 - 04.05.2025

Two years ago today, Victor Osimhen made Serie A history, leading Napoli to a historic title and breaking records.

On this day in 2023, Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen made history by breaking Samuel Eto’o’s record as the African player with the most goals scored in a single Serie A season. 

Osimhen netted 26 goals in 32 appearances, surpassing Eto’o’s previous mark and equaling George Weah as the joint-highest African goalscorer in Serie A history.

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Osimhen’s remarkable goal-scoring exploits were key in leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years. 

His consistent performances earned him the prestigious Capocannoniere award, making him the first African player in the 125-year history of the Italian top-flight to win the Serie A Golden Boot. 

This achievement also saw Osimhen become the highest-scoring African player ever in Serie A, a record he further extended by scoring the winning goal against Fiorentina shortly after breaking Eto’o’s record.

Osimhen and his family with the Serie A title | Imago

Throughout the 2022–23 season, Osimhen was instrumental not only in the league but also in European competition. 

He scored five goals in the UEFA Champions League, helping Napoli reach the quarterfinals for the first time in their history. 

His overall tally of 31 goals in 39 games across all competitions underscored his status as one of the most prolific forwards globally.

Osimhen’s blend of pace, strength, and athleticism has established him as one of the best strikers in the world. 

His record-breaking Serie A season and his role in Napoli’s historic title win have cemented his legacy in both African and Italian football.

In summary

  • Victor Osimhen went on to score 26 goals in 32 Serie A appearances in the 2022–23 season.

  • He broke Samuel Eto’o’s record for most goals by an African in a single Serie A season.

  • Osimhen became the first African to win the Serie A Golden Boot (Capocannoniere).

  • His goals helped Napoli secure their first Serie A title in 33 years.

  • He also scored 5 goals in the Champions League, aiding Napoli’s first-ever quarterfinal qualification.

Samuel Eto'o | Instagram
  • Osimhen is now the highest-scoring African player in Serie A history.

Victor Osimhen’s 2023 season remains a landmark moment for African footballers in Europe and a proud achievement for Nigeria’s Super Eagles.