Taiwo Awoniyi on competition in Nigeria squad

With Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle placing his trust in the in-form duo of Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface, Awoniyi remains calm and focused on his own development in order to become a regular in the national team.

Speaking on the Humble Boots podcast, Awoniyi made it clear that he doesn't feel pressured to outperform the big names to earn a national team call-up, instead, he views competition as a natural part of football.

"I think I knock them off sometimes. That's all football is all about - competition. If it's your moment, it's your moment. In all fairness to all these big names you've mentioned, I believe if it's my moment, many of them will watch me playing as well," said the striker.

He stressed that selection decisions lie solely with the coach and not with the players, while making it clear that his mindset is not based on comparison or rivalry.

"When it comes to the Super Eagles, it's never on you to make the decision. You can't say, 'I want to be in the first 11, or the next game, or be the top striker.' It's never your call. The best you can do is develop yourself into who you want to be," he added.

"I've never thought, 'I want to be better than this player or that one.' I believe everyone's destiny is different. I just want to be the best version of myself this year - whether it's playing or not playing."

As the race for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco heats up, Awoniyi's calm, reflective mindset could be just what sets him apart in the long run.