Nigeria’s coach Eric Chelle expressed his admiration for his players after their impressive 4–0 victory against Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday, labeling Victor Osimhen as “the best striker in the world” following the forward’s hat-trick that secured the Super Eagles’ spot in the CAF Playoff Tournament for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A hat-trick from Victor Osimhen, along with a powerful strike from substitute Frank Onyeka, guaranteed a convincing win for the three-time African champions at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. This result means Nigeria will participate in the four-nation playoff in Morocco next month, aiming for a chance to advance to the intercontinental qualification stage.
In his post-match comments, Chelle expressed his admiration for the dedication and resilience his players displayed under the pressure of a must-win situation.
”I’m so proud of my players,” he stated.
”They earned this victory, as it was challenging to adapt to a new coach and a new philosophy. Therefore, I am simply delighted for my players. They performed excellently two hours ago, and they also played remarkably well three days prior.”
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The coach also praised Osimhen, who netted three goals, raising his international tally to 29 goals in 44 appearances, positioning him to surpass Nigeria’s all-time leading scorer, the late Rashidi Yekini.
Chelle referred to the former Napoli striker as “the best striker in the world,” a remark that received applause in the post-match media room.
”I admire him. He is the best striker in the world. However, I take pride in all the players because each one contributed significantly to this team. I am particularly proud of my captain for scoring a fantastic penalty in the last match. They all gave their utmost,” Chelle remarked.
Chelle, who assumed control of the team midway through the qualification campaign, acknowledged that this victory marks merely the beginning of a lengthy journey towards redemption for the Super Eagles.
He noted that the group is cognizant of the challenges that lie ahead as they turn their focus to Morocco, saying, “This is not finished.
