The Super Eagles of Nigeria wrapped up their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in style with a commanding 4–0 victory over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
Star striker Victor Osimhen was the hero of the night, netting a sensational hat-trick, while substitute Frank Onyeka added the fourth to seal a dominant display for the home side.
Despite the emphatic win, Nigeria narrowly missed out on automatic qualification, as South Africa booked their ticket to the World Cup with a 3–0 victory over Rwanda. The global tournament is set to hold across the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.
Head coach Finidi George made four changes from the previous win over Lesotho, with Wilfred Ndidi wearing the captain’s armband and Moses Simon marking his 85th international appearance. Osimhen led the attack alongside Akor Adams, supported by Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Iwobi in midfield.
Nigeria’s starting lineup featured Stanley Nwabali in goal, with Benjamin Fredrick, Zaidu Sanusi, Semi Ajayi, and Calvin Bassey forming the defensive wall. The bench included the likes of Adebayo, Ekong, Onyeka, and Moffi.
The game burst into life early as Osimhen found the back of the net in the third minute after a clever setup by Chukwueze. Benin attempted to respond almost immediately, but a timely intervention from Calvin Bassey kept Nigeria’s lead intact.
The Super Eagles dominated possession through the opening stages, maintaining 58% control of the ball and dictating the rhythm of play. Osimhen nearly doubled his tally midway through the first half, only to be denied by a composed Benin defender.
Persistence, however, paid off when Osimhen struck again in the 38th minute, connecting brilliantly with another Chukwueze delivery to make it 2–0 before halftime.
The visitors began the second half with renewed energy, but their momentum was short-lived. Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute, cementing his status as the game’s standout performer.
Nigeria continued to press, with Ndidi missing a chance to add a fourth in the 68th minute. But substitute Frank Onyeka finally capped off the rout in stoppage time, drilling home a low strike past the Benin goalkeeper to seal the 4–0 victory.
It was a night of dominance, passion, and precision from the Super Eagles — a fitting end to their qualifying campaign, even though the dream of automatic qualification now rests on another day.
