The Nigerian’s incredible hat-trick performance against the Benin Republic on Tuesday.
Mokoena posted the straightforward but forceful remark, “My Goat,” on social media on Wednesday to show his appreciation for the Galatasaray striker.
At the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Osimhen led Nigeria to a decisive 4-0 victory over the Benin Republic, guaranteeing the Super Eagles’ spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs.
Khuliso Johnson Mudau, Mokoena’s teammate from South Africa, added his voice to the chorus of admirers by posting on social media, “What a player.”
With a well-placed strike from Samuel Chukwueze’s pass, Osimhen gave Nigeria the lead in just the third minute. In the 37th minute, Chukwueze’s header doubled Nigeria’s lead.
In the 51st minute, he converted Moses Simon’s free-kick with brutal accuracy to complete his hat-trick. In stoppage time, Frank Onyeka scored a fourth goal to complete the victory.
With 15 points and a +7 goal differential, the outcome solidified Nigeria’s position as one of the top four second-place teams in the African qualifiers.
Mokoena’s compliments were all the more meaningful because that same evening, South Africa defeated Rwanda 3-0 in Mbombela to qualify for the World Cup.
Bafana Bafana won Group C with 18 points, one point ahead of Nigeria and the Benin Republic, who both finished with 17. Talented Mbatha, Oswin Appollis, and Evides Makgopa scored goals.
Following a major controversy surrounding Mokoena earlier in the campaign, South Africa qualified. FIFA conducted an investigation over the midfielder’s dismissal against Lesotho on March 21 and determined that Mokoena was not permitted to play in the game, costing South Africa three points and three goals.
Mokoena was instrumental in South Africa’s campaign, which overcame the setback to take first place in the group.
Following Osimhen’s three-goal masterclass, the Confederation of African Football hailed his performance and referred to him as Nigeria’s “main man.”
With his hat-trick, Osimhen’s total of 29 goals for his country now stands eight goals behind Rashidi Yekini, Nigeria’s all-time top scorer.
