Nigeria boosted their World Cup qualification hopes with a resounding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday night, sealing a place in the playoff stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
The Super Eagles delivered one of their finest performances of the campaign, inspired by star striker Victor Osimhen, who netted a brilliant hat-trick before Frank Onyeka completed the rout late in the game.
Nigeria wasted no time asserting dominance, taking the lead just three minutes into the match when Osimhen converted a clever pass from Samuel Chukwueze. The in-form forward doubled the advantage midway through the first half, heading home another precise delivery from Chukwueze.
Benin tried to mount a response but found it difficult to break through Nigeria’s organized defense, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali making key saves and defenders Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel keeping things secure at the back.
Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute, calmly finishing off a flowing team move to make it 3–0 and effectively put the contest beyond reach. Substitutes Olakunle Olusegun and Terem Moffi added extra energy in attack as Nigeria maintained control throughout.
Benin’s hopes of a comeback faded as they missed several chances, and their misery was compounded in the final minute when Frank Onyeka slotted home from close range after a fine run and cross by Moses Simon.
With the emphatic win, Nigeria finished second in Group C to qualify for the playoff round of the CAF World Cup qualifiers — keeping alive their ambition of returning to the global stage at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
