Victor Osimhen earns ‘GOAT’ praise from Teboho Mokoena after a hat-trick for Nigeria in their 4-0 win over Benin Republic in the World Cup qualifiers

Victor Osimhen has received glowing praise from South Africa midfielder Teboho Mokoena, who described the Nigerian forward as his “Greatest of All Time” following a sensational hat-trick in Nigeria’s 4-0 demolition of Benin Republic on Tuesday.

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Taking to social media on Wednesday, Mokoena shared a brief but emphatic post: “My Goat.” His message quickly went viral among African football fans celebrating Osimhen’s latest masterclass.

The Galatasaray striker was unstoppable at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, opening the scoring inside three minutes with a composed finish from Samuel Chukwueze’s assist.

He doubled Nigeria’s lead with a commanding header in the 37th minute, again from a Chukwueze cross, before completing his hat-trick six minutes after the restart, converting Moses Simon’s free-kick with trademark precision.

Frank Onyeka sealed the emphatic victory with a stoppage-time strike, confirming Nigeria’s place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs.

The result left the Super Eagles among the top four second-placed teams in the African qualifiers with 15 points and a +7 goal difference.

Mokoena’s tribute carried extra weight as South Africa also sealed their World Cup qualification on the same night with a 3-0 win over Rwanda in Mbombela.

Talente Mbatha, Oswin Appollis, and Evides Makgopa were on target as Bafana Bafana topped Group C with 18 points, just ahead of Nigeria and Benin Republic on 17 apiece.

The midfielder’s campaign had not been without drama. Earlier this year, he was suspended and investigated by FIFA for fielding ineligibly in a match against Lesotho — a decision that temporarily cost South Africa three points.

Yet, his strong performances since then have helped restore confidence in the national side.

Meanwhile, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) hailed Victor Osimhen as Nigeria’s “main man,” celebrating his decisive performance and rising international tally of 29 goals — now just eight behind the legendary Rashidi Yekini, the country’s all-time leading scorer.

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With form like this, Victor Osimhen continues to justify his reputation as one of Africa’s most lethal forwards and a true powerhouse of world football.