W’Cup qualifier: Oliseh hails Fredrick as Eagles’ standout performer against Gabon
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Former Super Eagles midfielder Sunday Oliseh has praised Benjamin Fredrick for his performance in Nigeria’s 4-1 extra-time win over Gabon in the 2026 World Cup playoff semi-final.
Nigeria had advanced to the playoff stage as one of the top runners-up in the African qualifiers, boosted by a 4-0 win over the Benin Republic that featured a hat-trick from Victor Osimhen. In the semi-final clash, Akor Adams opened the scoring before Gabon equalised, sending the match into extra time.
Chidera Ejuke restored Nigeria’s lead, and Osimhen added two more goals to secure the 4-1 victory. Fredrick, alongside Calvin Bassey, anchored a solid defence that limited Gabon’s threats.
In a post on X on Friday, Oliseh described Fredrick as “the most influential player” for the Super Eagles, highlighting his positioning, pace, decisiveness, and simple but effective style of play.
“I personally found Benjamin Fredrick to be the most influential player yesterday versus Gabon for SuperEagles. Always well positioned, pacy, decisive and played simply. Now let’s celebrate today. But from tomorrow Congo needs to be our next victim,”
Oliseh wrote, adding a touch of humour: “Boy it feels great in the morning when Naija do well sha! Abi I lie? Have a nice day everyone.”
The veteran’s praise comes as Nigeria prepares to face the winner of the Cameroon versus DR Congo playoff tie on November 16, with a place in the inter-continental playoff at stake for a chance to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Fredrick, 20, began his football journey at the Simoiben Academy in Kaduna. He had stints with ABS FC and Nasarawa United in Nigeria before moving abroad.
In 2023, he was signed by English club Brentford FC and sent on loan to Belgian side K.F.C. Dender E.H. to gain first-team experience.
Primarily a centre-back, he can also operate as a right-back or defensive midfielder and made the transition from Nigeria’s under-20 team to the senior Super Eagles in May 2025 after standout performances at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
