Victor Osimhen Shines As Super Eagles Cruise Past Benin Republic

‎The Super Eagles of Nigeria wrapped up their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in great style with a commanding 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic on Tuesday evening in Uyo.

‎The win kept alive their hopes of advancing through the best runners-up route.

‎A Must-Win Game with Everything on the Line

‎Heading into the match, Nigeria knew that only a convincing result would keep their World Cup dream alive.

‎After a nervy start to the qualifiers, the Super Eagles had reignited their campaign with a 2–1 victory over Lesotho the previous weekend. That win restored confidence in Finidi George’s men, who approached the clash against Gernot Rohr’s Benin with determination and attacking intent.

‎Osimhen Sets the Tone Early

‎The home crowd at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium barely had time to settle into their seats when Victor Osimhen struck in the third minute, finishing coolly after a sharp attacking move.

‎The early goal lifted the team’s spirits and allowed Nigeria to dictate the tempo, pressing high and dominating possession.

‎Benin struggled to cope with the pace and physicality of the Nigerian attack, as wingers Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon continuously stretched the defence.

‎Double Before the Break

‎Just before half-time, Osimhen doubled Nigeria’s lead with a powerful header from a set-piece, taking full advantage of a well-delivered cross from Kelechi Iheanacho.

‎The goal was a reflection of the Napoli striker’s killer instinct his timing, positioning, and hunger for goals once again proving decisive.

‎By the break, Nigeria were in complete control, with the crowd chanting Osimhen’s name and sensing that more goals were on the way.

‎Hat-Trick Hero and a Cherry on Top

‎The second half began much like the first with Nigeria on the front foot. Osimhen completed his hat-trick midway through the second period, reacting quickest to a rebound inside the box to slot home and seal his dominant performance.

‎Substitute Frank Onyeka then added the finishing touch late in the game with a superbly struck volley from outside the box, sending the stadium into celebration. The final whistle confirmed a 4–0 rout and a strong finish for the Super Eagles.

‎Group C Standings and What Comes Next

‎Despite Nigeria’s impressive display, South Africa maintained their top spot in Group C after defeating Rwanda 3–0, thus securing automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.

‎Nigeria, meanwhile, finished second in the group, meaning they will now have to wait to see whether they qualify as one of Africa’s four best runners-up.