Nigeria vs Benin Republic: Match Highlights
The Super Eagles of Nigeria lined up strong against Benin Republic with Stanley Nwabali in goal. The defence featured Benjamin Fredrick, Zaidu Sanusi, Wilfred Ndidi (captain), Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey. In midfield and attack, Nigeria started with Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams, and star striker Victor Osimhen.
On the bench were Adebayo, Ekong, Arokodare, Onyeka, Onyemaechi, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Uche, Moffi, and Olusegun.
The game started brightly for Nigeria, as Victor Osimhen opened the scoring in just the third minute, slotting home from a clever assist by Samuel Chukwueze.
The Cheetahs of Benin Republic tried to respond quickly, pushing for an equaliser in the 12th minute, but Calvin Bassey made a timely interception to stop the attack.
By the 14th minute, Nigeria had dominated possession with 58%, compared to Benin’s 42%, though both sides had registered just one shot on target each.
In the 22nd minute, Osimhen came close again after connecting with another cross, but the Benin defence held firm.
The Super Eagles continued to press, and in the 38th minute, Osimhen struck again — heading home a perfect Chukwueze cross to double Nigeria’s lead before the break.
After five minutes of added time, the first half ended 2-0 in favour of Nigeria.
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Benin Republic resumed the second half determined to fight back, but Osimhen had other plans. Just six minutes after the restart (51’), he completed his hat-trick, calmly finishing from close range to make it 3-0 for the Super Eagles.
Nigeria kept pushing for more goals, with captain Wilfred Ndidi missing a good chance in the 68th minute.
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However, the pressure paid off late in the game. Substitute Frank Onyeka fired home Nigeria’s fourth goal in the 90th minute, sealing a dominant 4-0 victory over the Cheetahs.
It was a night to remember for the Super Eagles — and a statement of intent as they continue their march toward the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.
