Former Super Eagles goalkeeper Daniel Akpeyi has praised head coach Eric Chelle for transforming the national team’s performance, while also hailing striker Victor Osimhen as the squad’s standout star.

Akpeyi shared his thoughts while speaking on SuperSport following Nigeria’s emphatic 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic in Uyo — a result that secured the team’s place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.

Osimhen was the star of the night, netting a stunning hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal to seal Nigeria’s qualification.

Akpeyi, who previously guarded the Super Eagles’ goalpost, said the team looks rejuvenated under Chelle’s leadership.

“Since Eric Chelle came in, there have been a lot of changes, and the players are stepping up,” Akpeyi noted.

He described Osimhen as the team’s “superstar,” crediting his leadership and consistency for Nigeria’s attacking resurgence.

“Whether you like it or not, every team has that one superstar — and for Nigeria, it’s Victor Osimhen. He has lived up to expectations. It shows why Galatasaray can pay any amount of money to retain him there,” the former goalkeeper added.

Akpeyi’s comments reflect growing optimism around the Super Eagles’ prospects ahead of the 2026 World Cup, as Chelle continues to build momentum with a mix of discipline, tactical balance, and attacking flair.