Nigeria 4-0 Benin: Osimhen hat-trick hero, Onyeka strikes as Super Eagles advance to playoffs

Nigeria delivered a dominant performance against Benin, defeating them 4-0 on Tuesday in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Despite the emphatic victory, Nigeria’s win was not enough to secure direct qualification for the World Cup.

However, the Super Eagles have earned a playoff spot, regardless of the outcome of the meeting between Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan.

Victor Osimhen was the star of the show, opening the scoring in the 3rd minute with a clinical finish from Samuel Chukwueze’s assist. 

The 26-year-old striker doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 37th minute, rising to head Chukwueze’s cross into the net.

Osimhen completed his hat-trick early in the second half, heading a precise Moses Simon delivery in the 51st minute, effectively putting the game beyond Benin’s reach. 

Frank Onyeka sealed the 4-0 victory in stoppage time, converting a Moses Simon pass into the top centre of the goal.

Nigeria’s performance was marked by sharp attacking play, disciplined defence, and controlled possession throughout the 90 minutes. 

Benin struggled to mount any meaningful challenge and picked up several yellow cards for fouls committed in response to Nigeria’s pressure. 

The Super Eagles made strategic substitutions, including Terem Moffi, Tolu Arokodare, and Bruno Onyemaechi, ensuring energy and focus were maintained until the final whistle.

Nigeria finished second in Group C with 17 points, just one behind South Africa, who topped the group with 18 points.

Wale Adejumo

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