Striker Victor Osimhen has described the hat-trick he netted against Libya as his best ever performance for the national team.
The North Africans won the first leg 2-0 in Ben Guerdane, Tunisia on Wednesday last week, and came fully prepared to defend their advantage. But Osimhen, alongside fellow U17 World Cup winners Kelechi Nwakali, Samuel Chukwueze and Orji Okonkwo bossed proceedings in a one–sided affair in the city that is fast turning to Nigeria’s football capital.
Osimhen was brilliant at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, having a hand in all four goals as Nigeria won 4-0.
A brilliant hat-trick on Monday afternoon and an assist for David Okereke capped a flawless day for Osimhen.
“This is my best ever performance for the national team,” the striker who is on a season-long loan move to Sporting Charleroi from Wolfsburg mused shortly after the match.
“I think I have lot to offer the national team. I hope to build on the momentum.”
The Dream Team VII who needed to win with at least three unreplied goals came out smoking in the second half.
And Osimhen praised coach Imama Amapakabo for the inspirational pep talk at half time.
“At half time, the coach psyched us up. He said that we should take it one goal at a time and be patient in our build up. That’s the most important thing, to be disciplined with the instruction of the coach. It was key to the victory.”
Osimhen had summer trials with Belgian clubs Zulte Waregem and Club Brugge, who were the reigning champions. However, a summer bout with malaria had affected his physical condition, and neither club decided to take him on loan. He joined Belgian club Charleroi on a season-long loan deal, having failed to score in any of his 16 appearances with Wolfsburg. The decision to pitch tent with Charleroi proved crucial for the sharp shooter who has 10 goals in the Belgian Division A.
“The move to Charleroi has really helped me a lot. It hasn’t been easy for me at Wolfsburg.”
“Charleroi have helped me a lot. I’m very grateful to them also.
