By Sports Recorder
Despite a commanding 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in their final Group C match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria’s Super Eagles fell short of automatic qualification, settling instead for a playoff spot.
The match, played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Tuesday, saw Victor Osimhen steal the show with a brilliant hattrick that stunned the Cheetahs and sent fans into a frenzy.
Nigeria wasted no time asserting dominance, with Osimhen finding the net just three minutes in after a sharp assist from Simon Chukwueze. The early goal set the tone, as the Super Eagles’ relentless attack overwhelmed a Benin side that had led the group with 17 points before kickoff.
Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead with a clinical finish later in the first half, before completing his hattrick shortly after the break. The Napoli striker’s performance was a statement of intent, even as it ultimately proved insufficient to secure the top spot in Group C.
Midfielder Frank Onyeka added a late fourth goal in the 90th minute to seal the emphatic win, but it wasn’t enough to leapfrog Benin on the table. Despite matching them on points, Nigeria fell short on goal difference and must now go through the playoff route to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
With the playoffs looming, attention turns to Nigeria’s next opponent as they continue their quest for a spot in the global tournament.
