Former Super Eagles skipper John Obi Mikel has showered glowing praise on Victor Osimhen, calling the Napoli star Nigeria’s “big boy” after his stunning hat-trick powered the Super Eagles to a commanding 4–0 triumph over Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifier.

The electrifying performance at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo not only sealed Nigeria’s spot in the playoff round but also reignited the nation’s belief in another World Cup appearance.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel, visibly thrilled, described Osimhen as the heartbeat of the current Super Eagles side, the man who carries the nation’s hopes on his shoulders.

“Our World Cup dream is still alive,” Mikel said. “Before those two games, I said no matter what’s happening with the FA, the negativity, the politics, the noise, we had to win both matches against Lesotho and Benin. And we did. Credit to the boys, especially the main man, Victor Osimhen. Without that win, we wouldn’t even be talking about World Cup qualification.”

For Mikel, Osimhen’s influence goes beyond goals. It’s about leadership, hunger, and the ability to deliver when the stakes are highest.

“Victor Osimhen has single-handedly kept us alive,” Mikel continued. “In the biggest moments, when the pressure is suffocating, that’s when he rises. He delivered a hat-trick when we needed him most. That’s what the big boys do, and right now, he’s the big boy in that team. Nigeria needs him.”

With Mikel’s endorsement ringing loud, Osimhen’s heroics have once again reminded fans why he’s not just Nigeria’s top striker, he’s the heartbeat of a new Super Eagles era.