“He’s The Big Boy!” — Mikel Obi Showers Victor Osimhen With High Praise After Stunning Hat-Trick

Former Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel, has heaped praises on Napoli striker Victor Osimhen for his remarkable performance in Nigeria’s emphatic 4-0 win over the Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifier.

According to Ireporter Online, Osimhen delivered a stellar hat-trick at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, propelling Nigeria into the playoff round and reigniting the nation’s hopes of qualifying for the global tournament.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed deep admiration for the forward, describing him as the heartbeat of the current Super Eagles squad and a player who thrives when the stakes are highest.

“Our World Cup dream is still alive,” Mikel said. “I mentioned before the two games that, despite the issues surrounding the FA — the negativity and corruption — those matches against Lesotho and Benin Republic were must-win, and the boys delivered. Credit to them, and especially to the main man, Victor Osimhen. Without that victory, our qualification hopes would’ve been over.”

Mikel further lauded Osimhen’s resilience and leadership qualities, calling him the team’s undisputed talisman.

“Victor Osimhen has single-handedly kept us alive,” he added. “In one of the most crucial matches, he came through with a hat-trick. When the pressure mounts, the big boys rise to the occasion — and that’s exactly what he did. He’s the big boy in the team right now, and we all need him.”