Oliseh hails Frederick: ‘Most influential’ in Super Eagles’ 4-1 rout

Nigerian football legend Sunday Oliseh has singled out young defender Benjamin Frederick for extraordinary praise, declaring the 20-year-old the “most influential player” in the Super Eagles’ dominant 4-1 victory over Gabon in their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff on Thursday.

The emphatic endorsement, delivered via Oliseh’s X (formerly Twitter) account, spotlights Frederick as a potential bedrock for Nigeria’s defensive future following his commanding display.

Shutting Down Aubameyang; Frederick

Frederick, who is currently on loan at Dender FC from Brentford, was instrumental in neutralizing Gabon’s primary threat, the prolific striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.

The young centre-back was rarely out of position, demonstrating impressive pace and composure throughout the crucial playoff clash. His defensive highlight came when he executed a vital last-ditch tackle inside the box, denying the former African Player of the Year a clear scoring opportunity.

Reflecting on the performance, Oliseh lauded the defender’s clarity and positioning.

“I personally found Benjamin Frédrick to be the most influential player yesterday versus Gabon for Super Eagles,” Oliseh wrote on X. “Always well positioned, pacy, decisive and played Simple. Now let’s celebrate today. But from Tomorrow CONGO needs to be our next Victim. Boy it feels great in the morning when Naija do well.”

I personally found Benjamin Frédéric to be the most influential player yesterday versus Gabon for SuperEagles. Always well positioned, pacy, decisive and played Simple. Now let’s celebrate today. But from Tomorrow CONGO needs to be our next Victim. Boy it feels great in the… https://t.co/yhM5iqYBQ6

— Sunday Oliseh (@SundayOOliseh) November 14, 2025

Attacking Impact

Frederick’s influence was not limited to the defensive third. He marked his brilliant all-round display by providing the decisive pass for the Super Eagles’ third goal, setting up striker Victor Osimhen.

The young star’s rapid ascent in the national team setup began after impressing coaches at this year’s Unity Cup in London. He made his senior debut for the Super Eagles in a friendly against Jamaica, which Nigeria won on penalties.

Nigeria’s victory over Gabon has propelled them into the playoff final, where they will face DR Congo on Sunday. The Congolese secured their spot by edging out Cameroon in stoppage time.

All eyes will now be on Frederick to bring his “A game” once more as the Super Eagles fight for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.