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By Oscar Okhifo
South African footballers have heaped praise on Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen following his brilliant hat-trick in Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Osimhen’s outstanding display did not only propel Nigeria closer to the World Cup ticket but also had an indirect impact on South Africa’s qualification chances, prompting warm reactions from Bafana Bafana players and fans.
Midfielder Teboho Mokoena took to his Instagram page to post a picture of Osimhen with the caption, “My GOAT,” an acronym for “Greatest Of All Time.”
The post, which quickly went viral, drew attention from football lovers across the continent.
Another South African international, Khuliso Johnson Mudau, also joined in the praise, describing Osimhen as “What a player,” while South African fans flooded social media platforms to commend the Nigerian forward for his heroics.
Despite the long-standing football rivalry between the two nations, many South Africans expressed gratitude toward Osimhen, whose hat-trick against Benin strengthened their team’s qualification standing in the group.
Osimhen’s performance has once again reaffirmed his reputation as one of Africa’s most lethal forwards, with both Nigerian and South African supporters acknowledging his influence on the continent’s football scene.