Former Super Eagles forward John Utaka has commended the team for their victory over Benin Republic in the World Cup qualifiers.
The former Super Eagles forward expressed confidence in the team’s ability to sustain its form and secure a place at the FIFA World Cup.
“They did extremely well. This is the type of football we want to see,” Utaka said. “The team is looking brighter than before, so the players deserve the victory and the opportunity to play in the playoffs.
“They have put in the work to reach this stage. We are proud of them because they truly showed commitment. The game was extremely good.”
Looking ahead to the playoffs, Utaka expressed full confidence in Nigeria’s chances.
“I believe we have a 100 percent chance of qualifying. I do not see Gabon beating us. With the level of consistency, I don’t see anyone stopping this team.
“It won’t be easy, but no game is easy at this level. As a professional footballer, you must always be at your best. Football is all about moments, and you must seize them.”
The former international singled out Akor Adams as an exceptional talent, praising the striker’s rise and impact in the national team.
“Akor is on fire. I saw this coming even before he got called up to the national team. I said it then — this boy is really good. He can score and has excellent footwork.
“I’m not surprised by his performances. He’s someone who works extremely hard and demands so much from himself. I’m happy that all the work he’s put in is paying off.
“A big congratulations to him. He should just keep his momentum going that’s my wish for him and for the Super Eagles.
Utaka also had strong words of praise for Victor Osimhen, applauding the striker’s excellence and impact on the national team.
“Victor Osimhen has been on fire for years. He has shown real consistency and always gives 100 percent whenever he plays. There is no debate.”
The former forward backed coach Eric Chelle’s recent statement describing Osimhen as the best striker in the world.
“I agree with Chelle. In terms of consistency, Osimhen is the best striker in the world. A top striker is not defined by a single moment — they prove their ability over time.
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“In that regard, Osimhen is right up there, and I don’t see anyone currently on his level.”
Utaka emphasized the importance of supporting Chelle, urging fans and the Nigeria Football Federation to allow him time and space to fully implement his football philosophy.
“I think the work Chelle is doing is starting to show. It’s all about patience giving a person time to work and seeing what they are capable of doing. I mentioned before that with time, Chelle would deliver.
“I believe his work is now visible. I’m happy for him. This is our country, and we want everything to go well. People are happy when the national team wins, so we must continue building and doing the right things.”
John Utaka represented Nigeria at two FIFA World Cups in 2002 and 2010 and featured in three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.
At club level, he enjoyed a successful European career, winning the French Ligue 1 title with Montpellier and lifting the English FA Cup with Portsmouth.
