Nigeria’s head coach Eric Chelle has lavished praise on Victor Osimhen, describing the Super Eagles forward as the best striker in the world after his stunning hat-trick in Nigeria’s 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday night, Footynaija.com reports.
The emphatic win, which closed out Nigeria’s group campaign in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, saw Osimhen dominate the headlines once again. The Galatasaray striker scored three times before Frank Onyeka added a late fourth, sealing a perfect night for Chelle’s men in front of a lively crowd at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium.
Speaking after the game, Chelle said he was full of admiration for how quickly his players have adapted to his methods since his appointment earlier this year.
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“I’m so proud of my players. They deserved this game because it was not easy with a new coach and a new philosophy to adapt to,” Chelle said in his post-match press conference, as reported by The Sun.
“So tonight I’m just happy for my players. They played a great game two hours ago, and they also played a great game three days ago.”
When asked specifically about Osimhen, the Malian tactician didn’t hesitate to express his admiration.
“I love him. He is the best striker in the world,” Chelle said. “But I’m proud of all the players because everybody brought something to this team. I’m especially proud of my captain because he scored a great penalty in the last match. They all gave everything.”
Chelle’s declaration is an interesting one, especially when Osimhen’s form is compared to Europe’s elite forwards — including Erling Haaland, Viktor Gyökeres, and Kylian Mbappé.
While Haaland continues to deliver at Manchester City and Mbappé shines for Real Madrid, Osimhen’s recent exploits have been equally remarkable. The 26-year-old has been in sensational form for Galatasaray this season, scoring crucial goals in both the Turkish Super Lig and the UEFA Champions League.
The former African Footballer of the Year’s hat-trick against Benin keeps the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup hopes alive, with Nigeria now set for the CAF playoff round after finishing as one of the best runners-up.
