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Eric Chelle hails Victor Osimhen as ‘Best Striker in the World’ after Benin rout
By Oyediji Oluwaseun Babatunde
Nigeria’s senior men’s national team head coach Éric Chelle has hailed Victor Osimhen as the best striker in the world after the Galatasaray forward inspired Nigeria to a dominant 4–0 win over Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday.
The result sealed the Super Eagles’ place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifying Playoffs, as Osimhen’s hat-trick powered the three-time African champions past the Cheetahs.
Osimhen opened the scoring in the third minute from Samuel Chukwueze’s assist, doubled the lead with a header before half-time, and completed his treble with another header early in the second half.
Frank Onyeka rounded off the scoring in added time from a Moses Simon cross.
Speaking after the match, Chelle expressed pride in his squad’s performance and praised their quick adaptation to his style since taking charge.
“I’m so proud of my players. They deserve this win. It was not easy — a new coach, a new philosophy — but they adapted fast,” Chelle said.
“Especially the best striker in the world, Osimhen. They gave everything. For me, they are my champions.”
With the victory, Nigeria finished second in Group C behind South Africa and will now compete in the CAF World Cup Qualifying Playoffs against Cameroon, Gabon, and DR Congo in Morocco this November.
Chelle says the team’s focus has already turned to the crucial next phase.
“Now we go to Morocco. It’s going to be very difficult,” he added. “This is just the start, and I am proud of everyone — even the fans — because they pushed us.”
