Nigeria kept their 2026 World Cup dream alive on Tuesday night with a dominant 4–0 victory over Benin in Uyo, a result that booked their place in the CAF playoff stage of the qualifiers.
The Super Eagles delivered one of their most convincing performances of the campaign, led by Victor Osimhen, whose sensational hat-trick set the tone for an electric night at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. Frank Onyeka capped the rout with a late fourth goal to seal a memorable win.
It took just three minutes for the home side to announce their intent. Osimhen latched onto a perfectly weighted pass from Samuel Chukwueze and fired home with precision to give Nigeria an early lead. The Galatasaray forward struck again midway through the first half, rising above the defense to head in another Chukwueze cross, leaving Benin struggling to find answers.
The visitors tried to regroup but were met with a solid defensive wall marshaled by Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel, while goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali made key saves to preserve the clean sheet.
Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute, finishing calmly after a slick build-up that showcased Nigeria’s attacking prowess. The goal — his third of the night — further cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s most lethal strikers.
Substitutes Olakunle Olusegun and Terem Moffi added extra spark to the attack, keeping Benin on the back foot. Despite a few late chances, the visitors couldn’t find a breakthrough, and their frustration deepened when Frank Onyeka made it 4–0 in stoppage time after an energetic run and cross from Moses Simon.
With the emphatic win, Nigeria finished second in Group C, advancing to the playoffs of the African qualifiers and keeping their hopes alive for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
What You Should Know
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick against Benin reaffirmed his status as Nigeria’s talisman and one of Africa’s elite forwards.
The Super Eagles’ commanding win ensures their progression to the playoff round, a crucial step toward reclaiming a World Cup berth after missing out on Qatar 2022.
