The Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a scintillating performance on Tuesday night, defeating the Cheetahs of Benin Republic 4–0 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo in their final Group C fixture of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
The emphatic victory, led by a hat-trick from talismanic striker Victor Osimhen and a late goal from substitute Frank Onyeka, earned Nigeria three crucial points in the campaign. However, despite the dominant display, the result was not enough to secure Nigeria a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as group leaders South Africa sealed qualification with a convincing 3–0 win over Rwanda in Johannesburg.
Osimhen Inspires Nigeria with Brilliant Hat-Trick
Napoli striker Victor Osimhen was in superb form as he reminded fans of his clinical finishing and leadership in front of goal. From the onset, the Super Eagles took control of the match, dominating possession and pressing high against a Benin side that struggled to contain the attacking trio of Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Akor Adams.
Osimhen opened the scoring in the 23rd minute after connecting brilliantly with a low cross from Samuel Chukwueze, who had broken down the right flank. The forward showed composure and precision as he guided the ball past the Beninese goalkeeper for Nigeria’s first goal.
The Napoli forward doubled Nigeria’s lead just before halftime with a powerful header from a corner delivered by Kelechi Iheanacho. His aerial dominance and positioning once again underlined why he remains one of Africa’s most lethal strikers.
In the second half, Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 54th minute after latching onto a through pass from Wilfred Ndidi and rounding the goalkeeper before calmly slotting home. The stadium erupted as fans chanted his name, recognizing his world-class display.
Onyeka Caps It Off as Nigeria Finishes in Style
Substitute Frank Onyeka, who replaced Ndidi in the 70th minute, added a fourth goal late in the game. The Brentford midfielder capitalized on a loose ball at the edge of the box, curling a right-footed shot into the top corner to seal an impressive victory for the three-time African champions.
The goal underscored Nigeria’s attacking depth and tactical fluidity under interim coach Finidi George, who made four changes to the side that defeated Lesotho in their previous outing.
Team Selection and Tactical Approach
For the crucial fixture, Finidi George named Wilfred Ndidi as captain, with the Leicester City midfielder leading the team out in place of the injured William Troost-Ekong. There were four changes from the side that faced Lesotho. Akor Adams partnered Osimhen upfront, while Moses Simon made his 85th international appearance for the Super Eagles.
The backline featured Zaidu Sanusi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, and Bright Osayi-Samuel, with Stanley Nwabali returning in goal. The midfield trio of Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Joe Aribo provided a balance of creativity and control, while the wings saw Simon and Chukwueze offering width and pace.
The tactical setup paid off handsomely, with Nigeria pressing aggressively from the first whistle, maintaining shape, and showing improved chemistry in attack — a feature that had been missing in earlier qualifiers.
South Africa Edge Out Nigeria Despite Victory
While Nigeria’s 4–0 triumph delighted fans in Uyo, the result from Johannesburg dealt a blow to the team’s World Cup hopes. South Africa, who began the day on top of the group, maintained their advantage with a dominant 3–0 win over Rwanda.
The win ensured that Bafana Bafana finished as Group C leaders, clinching Africa’s automatic qualification slot for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Nigeria, despite finishing second in the group, will have to wait for CAF’s final playoff qualification procedures to determine if any additional spots or playoff opportunities will be available.
Finidi George Commends Team Effort
Speaking after the match, Super Eagles coach Finidi George praised his players for their determination and professional performance.
“The boys played with heart and purpose tonight. We knew it was important to finish strong, and they gave everything. Osimhen was fantastic, but it was a team effort — from defence to attack,” Finidi said.
He also acknowledged the disappointment of missing out on automatic qualification, emphasizing the need for consistency and focus in future international fixtures.
“We gave our best, but football can be cruel sometimes. We’ll continue to build this team and come back stronger. Nigeria deserves to be at the World Cup,” he added.
Fans Celebrate Despite Disappointment
The atmosphere at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium remained electric even after news filtered through that South Africa had qualified ahead of Nigeria. Supporters waved flags, sang songs, and hailed the players for their spirited performance.
Victor Osimhen, who took the match ball after his hat-trick, dedicated the victory to Nigerian fans, saying their support kept the team motivated.
“I’m happy to score and help my country. The fans have been amazing, and we promise to keep fighting for them,” Osimhen said.
A Glimpse into the Future
Although the result means Nigeria will not automatically join Africa’s representatives at the 2026 World Cup yet, the convincing victory signals a resurgence in the Super Eagles’ attacking form and confidence.
With a core of young and talented players like Osimhen, Akor Adams, Iwobi, and Onyeka, Nigeria’s football future remains bright. The team will now turn its attention to the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and potential playoff matches, depending on CAF’s final qualification structure.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) is expected to meet later this month to review the team’s performance and make decisions regarding the technical crew’s future, preparations, and friendly fixtures ahead of 2026.
Match Summary
- Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers – Africa (Group C)
- Final Score: Nigeria 4–0 Benin Republic
- Goalscorers: Victor Osimhen (23’, 42’, 54’), Frank Onyeka (83’)
- Captain: Wilfred Ndidi
- Coach: Finidi George
- Attendance: Over 30,000 spectators
Conclusion
Nigeria’s 4–0 demolition of Benin Republic was a statement of intent and a morale-boosting end to their qualification campaign. Though the Super Eagles fell short of securing an automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup, the performance in Uyo reaffirmed the team’s attacking prowess and growing unity under Finidi George.
As the countdown to 2026 continues, fans across the nation will be hopeful that this revitalized Super Eagles side can build on the momentum and return to the biggest stage in world football.
