Nigeria coach Eric Chelle hails Victor Osimhen as BEST striker in the world after netting hat-trick against Benin

Nigeria coach Eric Chelle has lauded Victor Osimhen, describing him as the best striker in the world after netting a stunning hat-trick to secure a playoff place in the 2026 World Cup.

The Super Eagles cruised to a 4-0 victory over Benin in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday in Uyo, with Osimhen scoring three times. Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal to seal the dominant win.

As a result, the Super Eagles advanced to the CAF playoff tournament, where they will battle three other nations for one of Africa’s remaining spots at the 2026 World Cup.

Following the match, Chelle heaped praise on Osimhen, going as far as calling the Galatasaray striker ‘the best in the world’.

“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, per Naija News.

“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.

“I love him [Osimhen]. He is the best striker in the world. But I’m proud of all the players because everybody brought something to this team,” he added.

“I’m especially proud of my captain because he scored a great penalty in the last match. They all gave everything. This is not finished. This is the beginning. It will be very, very difficult. Now we go to Morocco and we have a lot of work to do.”