Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has commended head coach Eric Chelle for transforming the national team, saying his arrival has inspired the players to raise their game.

Speaking on SuperSport after Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 win over Benin Republic, Akpeyi noted that noticeable improvements have taken place in the squad since the Malian tactician assumed charge.

“Since Eric Chelle came in, there’s been a lot of progress, and you can see the players responding positively,” Akpeyi said.

The former Kaizer Chiefs shot-stopper also lauded Victor Osimhen’s contribution, describing him as the team’s standout star and a player worth any club’s investment.

“Every team has its talisman, and for Nigeria, that’s Victor Osimhen. He continues to meet expectations, and it’s easy to see why Galatasaray would be willing to pay any price to keep him,” he added.

Osimhen was the star of the match, netting a hat-trick as Nigeria crushed Benin Republic to book a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs. The 26-year-old opened scoring in the third minute before adding goals in the 37th and 51st minutes, while Frank Onyeka sealed the victory with a stoppage-time strike.

Chelle, who took over earlier in the year, had faced criticism during the qualifiers due to inconsistent performances. However, the convincing win over Benin appears to have restored confidence within the squad, with many fans and analysts praising the coach’s tactical adjustments and player management.

Nigeria finished second in Group C with 17 points — just one behind South Africa — and will now face a two-legged play-off to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.