‘Osimhen is better than Haaland’ — Fans declare as Super Eagles star leads Nigeria to World Cup playoffs

Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dreams are alive again, and it is all thanks to one man: Galatasaray striker, Victor Osimhen.

The Super Eagles’ talisman delivered a sensational hat-trick in Nigeria’s 4–0 demolition of Benin Republic, reigniting hope for a place in the playoffs and sparking bold fan debates comparing him to Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland.

Heading into the final group game, the Super Eagles’ qualification chances looked bleak with South Africa’s recent dominance over Rwanda leaving Nigeria needing not just victory, but goals, and Osimhen delivered both in style.

The Galatasaray forward opened the scoring inside three minutes at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, pouncing on a loose ball to give Nigeria an early lead.

He doubled it soon after with a trademark header that reminded fans why he’s considered one of Africa’s deadliest finishers.

Then, just after halftime, Osimhen completed his hat-trick with a calm, ruthless, and perfectly timed finish. His clinical display propelled Nigeria into the conversation for one of CAF’s best second-placed playoff spots.

And just when it seemed the job was done, Frank Onyeka stepped up in stoppage time with a thunderous volley from Moses Simon’s cross to seal a 4–0 victory; a scoreline that could prove crucial in the goal difference race. The roar inside the stadium said it all: Nigeria were alive again.

Almost instantly, social media erupted with praise for Osimhen, with Nigerian fans calling him “better than Haaland.”

The comparison came after Haaland’s own hat-trick for Norway earlier against Israel, where he missed two penalties despite his three-goal haul.

“Osimhen is better than Haaland, but we’re not ready for this discussion” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter), while another declared, “Super Victor Osimhen >>>>> Haaland. Argue with your keyboard”

The stats back up the passion. Nigeria have not lost a single World Cup qualifier with Osimhen on the pitch, four wins and one draw.

And while Haaland may dominate European headlines, Osimhen’s heroics for Nigeria show a different kind of greatness.