Benin coach Gernot Rohr reflects on handing Victor Osimhen debut Nigeria call up, happy with progress

Benin coach Gernot Rohr has reflected on handing striker Victor Osimhen his maiden Nigeria call up, while expressing joy about his progress.

Osimhen, who plies his trade for Galatasaray made his first appearance for the Super Eagles back in September 2016 under Rohr, four month to his 18^th birthday and has since established himself as a key member of the team.

The former Napoli star scored a sensational hat-trick as Nigeria thumped Benin 4-0 to secure playoff spot in the World Cup qualification. He netted twice in the first half before completing his treble early in the second half of the match, sealing a memorable performance for the home fans.

Speaking after the game, Rohr, who previously managed the Super Eagles expressed his joy with Osimhen’s progress, having handed him his first call up in 2016.

“I remember when I brought Osimhen in the team, he was 17, here in our first game against Tanzania, and he was already in our selection,” Rohr stated.

Rohr expressed mixed feelings about the striker’s star performance: “so I’m very happy to see him like that, but I’m not happy he did it against me.” He added, “But I hope he can do it in the playoffs for your country which I love.”

The Super Eagles will compete in the continental playoff set for November 2025 before the inter-continental playoff to determine their fate for the global showpiece next year.