Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle has heaped praise on debutant Benjamin Frederick following Nigeria's triumph over Jamaica in the Unity Cup final on Saturday.
The match ended 2-2 after regulation time, with Nigeria eventually claiming victory through a 5-4 penalty shootout win to lift the 2025 Unity Cup.
Frederick, a 20-year-old defender who plays for Premier League side Brentford, made a surprise debut despite only joining the squad in the UK a day before the match. Despite the short notice, the young defender displayed remarkable composure throughout the game.
Speaking to the media after the match, Chelle specifically highlighted Frederick's performance, praising his technical abilities and maturity on the ball.
"Benjamin Frederick was good. He was very calm and composed," Chelle said. "Technically, he's close to perfect — especially when it comes to touching the ball and making strong passes."
The victory marks a positive achievement for Chelle's Super Eagles as they continue their preparations for upcoming competitions, including the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Frederick's impressive debut adds to Nigeria's defensive options, with the young player showing he can perform at international level despite his age and the pressure of a final match situation.
The Unity Cup triumph has been well-received by Nigerian football fans, who took to social media to celebrate the team's success against the Jamaican side.
