Nigeria kept their World Cup dream alive on Tuesday night with an emphatic 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo, booking their spot in the playoff round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
The Super Eagles delivered one of their best performances of the campaign, with Victor Osimhen stealing the show by scoring a sensational hat-trick before Frank Onyeka sealed the win late in the game.
It didn’t take long for the home side to make their mark — just three minutes in, Osimhen fired Nigeria ahead after a brilliant assist from Samuel Chukwueze. The Napoli striker doubled the lead midway through the first half, heading home another perfect cross from Chukwueze to make it 2-0.
Benin tried to respond but struggled to break through Nigeria’s solid defence. Goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali was alert when called upon, while Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel stood firm at the back.
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Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute with a calm finish, effectively putting the game to bed and reminding everyone why he’s one of Africa’s most lethal forwards. The Super Eagles kept the pressure on, with substitutes Olakunle Olusegun and Terem Moffi adding pace and energy to the attack.
Benin’s night went from bad to worse when Frank Onyeka added a fourth goal in the final minute, slotting home after a dazzling run and cross from Moses Simon.
The dominant win means Nigeria finishes second in Group C and advances to the playoff stage of the CAF qualifiers — keeping alive their hopes of securing a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
