Former Super Eagles defender Godwin Okpara has described Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic as both “surprising and refreshing,” saying it showed the true potential of the team when they play with purpose and unity.
Speaking after the final Group C fixtures, Okpara said the Super Eagles should have produced such performances earlier in the campaign, which could have secured them automatic qualification to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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“It was a surprising game — not because we can’t win, but because we should have played like this long ago,” Okpara said. “If we had shown this kind of hunger and intensity from the start, we wouldn’t be fighting through the playoffs.”
Okpara hailed Victor Osimhen, who scored a hat-trick in the win, describing him as one of the most committed and fearless strikers in world football.
“Osimhen is always hungry — that’s what sets him apart,” Okpara added. “He fights for every ball, presses from the front, and leads by example. His mentality is what every Nigerian player should emulate.”
The former PSG and Super Eagles defender, however, cautioned that while the result has reignited national hope, it should not mask the deeper issues within the team’s structure and mentality.
“One good game doesn’t erase the inconsistency we’ve seen,” he said. “We must learn to maintain this level every match, not only when everything is on the line.”
Okpara urged Nigerians to continue supporting the team as they prepare for the playoff stage, stressing that consistency, teamwork, and focus will be key to reaching the World Cup.
“We’ve shown what we can do. Now it’s time to do it every time,” he concluded.
