Victor Osimhen scored a hat-trick as Nigeria thrashed Sao Tome and Principe 6-0 in their 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match on Sunday. The 23-year-old Nigerian striker opened the scoring in the 12th minute with a powerful header from a cross by Moses Simon. He doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 22nd minute, latching onto a through ball from Oghenekaro Etebo and finishing coolly past Mohamed Kamara. Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 55th minute, chipping the ball over Kamara after being played through by Simon.

Osimhen also provided an assist for Nigeria’s fourth goal, scored by Ademola Lookman in the 68th minute. The Super Eagles added two more goals in the second half through Moses Simon and Terem Moffi.

The win was Nigeria’s third in their opening three matches of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. They are now top of Group A, with nine points.

Osimhen’s hat-trick was his second in international football, and his first since scoring three against Sierra Leone in 2021. He has now scored 17 goals in 23 appearances for Nigeria.

The striker is in fine form for club and country at the moment. He has scored 10 goals in 14 appearances for Napoli this season, and he is expected to be one of the stars of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

Osimhen’s hat-trick was a timely reminder of his quality ahead of Nigeria’s upcoming matches against Guinea Bissau and Sierra Leone. The Super Eagles will be looking to continue their winning start to the qualifying campaign and Osimhen will be key to their chances.

Here are some of the reactions to Osimhen’s hat-trick:

• “Osimhen is a special talent. He is one of the best strikers in Africa and he is only going to get better.” – Gernot Rohr, former Nigeria coach
• “Osimhen is a nightmare for defenders. He is strong, quick, and he has a great eye for goal.” – John Obi Mikel, former Nigeria captain
• “Osimhen is a star in the making. He is going to be a big player for Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.” – Austin Okocha, former Nigeria international

Osimhen’s hat-trick was a major statement of intent from the striker and Nigeria. They are one of the favorites to win the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and Osimhen will be key to their chances.