Nigeria reignited their World Cup qualification campaign in emphatic fashion on Tuesday night, cruising to a 4–0 win over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. The victory secured the Super Eagles a spot in the playoff round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
Star striker Victor Osimhen delivered a masterclass performance, netting a sensational hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added the icing on the cake with a late fourth goal to seal a memorable night for the home side.
The Super Eagles got off to a blistering start, taking the lead in the third minute when Osimhen latched onto a clever through ball from Samuel Chukweze and slotted home with trademark precision. The momentum stayed with Nigeria, and Osimhen doubled the advantage midway through the first half, rising highest to head in another teasing cross from Chukwueze.
Benin struggled to cope with Nigeria’s intensity and fluid attacking play. Although they occasionally threatened on the break, Stanley Nwabali was alert between the sticks, while Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel marshalled the defence with composure.
Osimhen completed his hat-trick six minutes after the restart, coolly finishing off a sweeping team move to make it 3–0 and effectively end Benin’s resistance. Head coach Finidi George later introduced Olakunle Olusegun and Terem Moffi, whose pace and movement kept the visitors on the back foot.
Benin’s hopes of a late rally faded as Nigeria maintained control. In the 90th minute, Moses Simon embarked on a dazzling run down the left and delivered a pinpoint cross for Onyeka, who tapped in from close range to complete the rout.
The commanding win lifts Nigeria to second place in Group C, ensuring their progression to the decisive playoff stage as they continue their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
It was a statement performance from the Super Eagles — one that reignited belief among fans that Nigeria remains a force to reckon with on the continent.
