Mikel says Osimhen single-handedly kept Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive
Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has lauded Victor Osimhen, stating that Nigeria’s chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup playoffs would have been nonexistent without the star striker’s contributions.
Osimhen scores a hat trick for Nigeria || Imago
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Osimhen’s critical impact was on full display during the decisive final Group C qualifier, where he scored a hat-trick in a dominant 4-0 victory over Benin. That win was essential in securing Nigeria’s spot in the next round of qualification.
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The Galatasaray forward’s influence on the team is undeniable. In the matches he missed, the Super Eagles struggled, recording four draws and one loss.
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His presence has consistently proven to be the difference-maker, reviving a campaign that was on the verge of faltering.
What Mikel said
Speaking on his “Obi One” podcast, Mikel praised Osimhen’s character and performance under pressure, highlighting his passion and aggressive style of play as key factors in the team’s success.
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“Credit to the boys… and of course, the main man we’ve talked about so many times on this podcast. Absolutely brilliant,” Mikel said.
He added, “Yes, it was against Benin, people can say he scored a hat-trick, but you still have to score this hat-trick. You still have to show up. It was our biggest game of the season.”
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Mikel emphasised the gravity of the situation, noting that a loss would have ended Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations.
“If we didn’t win that game, we wouldn’t be talking about trying to qualify for the World Cup. Victor Osimhen has single-handedly kept us alive.
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“When the pressure is on, the big boys step up, and that’s exactly what he has done. He’s the big boy in that team right now, and we all needed him,” he continued.
Nigeria will face Gabon in the World Cup playoff next month, which will be held in Morocco.
