Victor Osimhen delivered a stunning performance as Nigeria defeated Benin 4–0 in Uyo, thrusting the Super Eagles back into the race for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His hat-trick, complemented by a stoppage-time strike from Frank Onyeka, ensured Nigeria remain alive in the qualification battle.
From the opening whistle, Osimhen showed he meant business. He opened the scoring just three minutes in via a well-placed finish after a build from Samuel Chukwueze.
His second came before halftime — a towering header from Chukwueze’s cross — giving Nigeria breathing space with a 2–0 lead.
Early in the second half, Osimhen completed his hat-trick, heading home a chipped pass from Moses Simon.
Then, in stoppage time, Onyeka sealed the emphatic result with a calm finish following a scramble in the box.
What It Means in the Context of Group C
Going into the final fixture, Benin led Group C. A draw would have secured their first ever World Cup appearance. But Nigeria’s emphatic win changed the fortunes.
Still, Nigeria couldn’t claim the group’s top spot. South Africa clinched automatic qualification by defeating Rwanda 3–0, finishing with 18 points. Nigeria ended with 17 points, tying Benin—but with superior goal difference, they clinched the runner-up spot.
By finishing among the best second-placed teams in CAF qualifying, Nigeria now advances to an intercontinental playoff stage.
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Osimhen’s Rising Legacy
Osimhen’s hat-trick in this high-stakes fixture reinforces his reputation as one of Africa’s elite strikers. FIFA observers and CAF have acknowledged his decisive impact, with CAF releasing an official statement praising his performances.
It’s his first international hat-trick in a while and comes at exactly the right time for his federation and for Nigerian football.
What Comes Next
- Nigeria will now prepare for the CAF playoffs scheduled for November 2025, where they must win to reach the intercontinental playoff.
- The team must regroup quickly, manage travel and fitness, and retain momentum from this dominant display.
- Fans and analysts will watch new lineups, tactics, and whether Osimhen can keep delivering under pressure.
