Super Eagles coach, Eric Chelle
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has lauded his squad for a dominant performance against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, after a stunning 4-0 victory in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
An early third-minute goal from Victor Osimhen settled early nerves in what had been anticipated to be a tense fixture. Osimhen went on to deliver a brilliant hat-trick, with Frank Onyeka sealing the win in stoppage time.
Addressing journalists in a post-match conference, Chelle applauded the players’ effort and commitment.
> “I’m surprised by my players. They deserved this win – it wasn’t an easy game. They gave it everything,” Chelle said.
“They played like champions. From start to finish, they were focused, determined, and completely committed. I’m proud of them.”
Despite the emphatic win, Chelle maintained that the mission is not yet complete.
> “It’s not over yet. We have to go to Morocco and fight for final qualification. It won’t be easy, but tonight we celebrate this victory,” he added.
The coach also heaped praise on striker Victor Osimhen, calling him the “best striker in the world”, after his clinical performance in front of goal.
Team captain William Troost-Ekong also expressed pride in the team’s spirit and unity.
> “I’m proud to be part of this team. Everyone gave their all to get this result. It was a great team effort,” Ekong said.
“We’re grateful to Nigerians for standing behind us. The love for football in this country is real. But we know we still have work to do.”
On the opposing end, Benin Republic’s coach Gernot Rohr, a former handler of the Super Eagles, admitted disappointment but praised his young squad for their determination.
> “This result is painful. We had hoped to make history by qualifying Benin for the World Cup,” Rohr stated.
“We simply lacked experienced players. Some of our starters don’t even have clubs, and others are playing in lower leagues like France’s fifth division. But I’m proud of what they’ve achieved so far.”
Rohr acknowledged the Super Eagles’ quality, calling them the more experienced and complete side.
> “They started strong and punished us early. That first-minute goal from Osimhen set the tone,” he added.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Super Eagles’ 4-0 win puts them in strong contention ahead of the upcoming play-off as they continue their push for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
