Victor Osimhen’s sensational hat-trick propelled Nigeria to a nigeria-beats-benin-4-0-world-cup-hopes/” title=”…s Stunning Hat-Trick Powers … to a 4-0 Rout of …, Keeping World Cup Dreams Alive (Highlights)”>commanding 4-0 triumph over Benin Republic, earning him comparisons to legendary figures like Diego Maradona and Rashidi Yekini, according to Soccernet.ng.
Ex-Nigerian international Nduka Ugbade was among the first to laud Osimhen’s performance, calling it ‘world-class’ and highlighting the striker’s growth into a pivotal leader and role model for emerging talents.
The Galatasaray forward was unstoppable in Uyo, netting three goals that secured Nigeria’s advancement to the CAF playoff round for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
His relentless movement, fierce determination, and insatiable appetite for goals captivated supporters and seasoned professionals alike.
Ugbade, who captained Nigeria to the 1985 U-16 World Cup title, emphasized that Osimhen’s influence transcends mere numbers.
“Osimhen’s performance against Benin was about more than just scoring; it embodied leadership, conviction, and passion,” Ugbade told Sports247.
“He carries the team with the same spirit Rashidi Yekini once did for Nigeria. That’s true greatness. Exceptional players make the toughest challenges seem effortless. Osimhen belongs in that elite group. Like Yekini and Maradona, he possesses an unyielding drive to triumph for his nation.
“Now, every aspiring footballer in Nigeria looks up to Osimhen-not only for his goals but for his journey and mindset.
“He symbolizes resilience, hope, and dedication.”
The seasoned coach urged Nigerians to rally behind the Super Eagles as they prepare for the decisive playoff round, confident that the squad has regained its cohesion and self-belief.
“With Osimhen spearheading the attack, qualifying for the 2026 World Cup is well within our grasp,” he added.
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Gernot Rohr Reflects on the Talent He Introduced to the World
Watching Osimhen’s masterclass with a mix of pride and frustration was Gernot Rohr, now the head coach of Benin and the man who gave Osimhen his senior international debut.
“We did our best, but when you face a player of Osimhen’s caliber… I remember bringing him into the squad at just 17 during our opening match against Tanzania,” Rohr recalled.
“It’s great to see him flourish, though I’m not thrilled it happened against my team. Still, I hope he continues to shine in the playoffs for Nigeria, a country I respect deeply.”
Rohr’s squad had harbored hopes of making their inaugural World Cup appearance, but Osimhen’s clinical display dashed those dreams.
“It was a huge disappointment because we aimed to reach the World Cup for the first time with Benin,” Rohr admitted. “Winning in Nigeria, especially when they’re fighting for playoff qualification, is an immense challenge.”
CAF Praises Osimhen as Nigeria’s Key Player
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) also took notice of Osimhen’s commanding performance.
Victory is incomplete without Victor.
Osimhen, the main man, delivers once again for Nigeria.pic.twitter.com/KVbWEfvJOG
CAF’s social media tribute quickly gained traction, celebrating Osimhen’s vital role:
“Victory simply isn’t spelled without Victor. The main man Osimhen once again comes through for Nigeria.”
Osimhen opened the scoring early after a slick combination with Samuel Chukwueze, doubled the advantage before halftime, and completed his hat-trick with a powerful header that bounced off the post before crossing the line. Frank Onyeka’s late goal cemented Nigeria’s dominant win, securing second place in Group C behind South Africa.
With 29 goals in 44 caps, Osimhen is steadily closing in on Rashidi Yekini’s national record of 37 goals.
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