Mikel Obi says Victor Osimhen is leading Nigeria’s charge for the 2026 World Cup.
He praises the striker for scoring a hat-trick in the crucial win over Benin.
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has praised Victor Osimhen for his remarkable impact in Nigeria’s push for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mikel said the Napoli striker has shown that he is the leading figure in the national team after scoring three goals in the recent 4-0 win against Benin Republic.
Osimhen delivered a standout performance at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo as Nigeria recorded a convincing win over their Group C rivals. The result confirmed the Super Eagles’ place in the playoff round scheduled for November.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed relief that Nigeria kept their qualification hopes alive despite recent controversies surrounding football administration in the country. He explained that the team could not afford to drop points in the games against Lesotho and Benin Republic.
“Our World Cup dream is still alive. I said those two games were must-win games, and we did that,” the former Chelsea midfielder said.
Mikel highlighted Osimhen’s influence, noting that his goals came at a crucial moment when the team needed a strong response. He praised the forward for rising to the occasion when the pressure was highest.
“Victor Osimhen has single-handedly kept us alive. In one of the biggest games, he came out and scored a hat-trick,” he said. “When the pressure is on, the big boys step up, and that is exactly what he has done. He is the big boy in that team right now, and we all need him.”
