Super Eagles strikers Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu are now recognized globally for their outstanding aerial abilities. Both Nigerian forwards have secured top spots in international rankings for impressive jumps and spectacular bicycle kicks.
Osimhen’s Record-Breaking Leap
Victor Osimhen currently holds the fifth-highest recorded leap in world football. This incredible feat occurred during Napoli’s 3-0 victory at Spezia in February 2023. He rose an astonishing 2.58 metres to score.
His goal came in the 68th minute of the match. Osimhen soared above goalkeeper Bartlomiej Dragowski to extend Napoli’s lead at the Stadio Alberto Picco. This exceptional athleticism highlights his reputation as one of the game’s most feared attackers.
Osimhen’s aerial prowess is a defining quality. He has maintained strong form this season for Napoli, netting nine times in 12 appearances across all competitions.
Global High Jump Records
Cristiano Ronaldo still holds the overall record for the highest jump. He achieved a remarkable 2.93-metre leap for Real Madrid. This was during a Champions League match against Manchester United in 2013.
Morocco’s Youssef En-Nesyri follows closely with a 2.78-metre header. He scored this against Portugal at the 2022 World Cup. Ugandan defender Bevis Mugabi and England’s Fikayo Tomori also feature prominently. They recorded jumps of 2.62 metres and 2.61 metres, respectively.
Onuachu’s Dazzling Bicycle Kicks
Paul Onuachu has also made his mark in the bicycle kick rankings. The Trabzonspor forward ranks second globally. His overhead strike against Fatih Karagumruk in the Turkish Super Lig last year was measured at 2.41 metres.
This spectacular goal surpassed Cristiano Ronaldo’s previous best of 2.38 metres. Onuachu’s incredible technique and agility are clear with this achievement.
Top Bicycle Kick Achievers
Scott McTominay now leads the bicycle kick category. His acrobatic finish for Scotland against Denmark on November 18 set a new benchmark. The Scottish midfielder reached an impressive 2.53 metres.
He lifted himself 0.62 metres above his natural height of 1.91 metres to connect with Ben Gannon-Doak’s cross. Following McTominay and Onuachu, Cristiano Ronaldo now sits in third place in these rankings.
Onuachu continues to display strong form this season. He has scored nine goals and provided one assist in 13 league matches for Trabzonspor.
Pride for Nigerian Football
The exceptional aerial abilities of both Victor Osimhen and Paul Onuachu bring immense pride to Nigerian football. Their consistent performance and record-breaking feats cement their status among the world’s elite strikers.