Osimhen Fires Hat-Trick as Nigeria Crush Benin 4–0 to Reach World Cup Playoffs

Nigeria’s Super Eagles stormed into the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs with a resounding 4–0 victory over Benin Republic on Tuesday night at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Although the win wasn’t enough to clinch automatic qualification, the team’s dominant performance secured a crucial playoff berth, keeping their World Cup dream alive.

Osimhen Leads the Charge

Victor Osimhen delivered a spectacular hat-trick, opening the scoring in the 3rd minute after connecting with a cross from Samuel Chukwueze.

He doubled Nigeria’s lead in the 37th minute with a powerful header — again assisted by Chukwueze — before completing his hat-trick just six minutes into the second half from a well-placed Moses Simon cross.

Midfielder Frank Onyeka added a fourth in stoppage time, firing a stunning shot into the top corner, sealing a flawless performance for the Super Eagles.

Dominant Display from Start to Finish

Nigeria controlled possession and tempo throughout, overwhelming Benin with relentless pressure and crisp attacking play. The visitors struggled to keep up, conceding multiple fouls and yellow cards in frustration.

Coach Eric Chelle’s tactical substitutions, including the introduction of Tolu Arokodare and Onyeka, helped maintain Nigeria’s attacking momentum until the final whistle.

Eyes on the Playoffs

The victory lifted Nigeria to 17 points, finishing second in Group C, just one point behind South Africa on 18.

While they missed out on direct qualification, the Super Eagles will carry confidence and momentum into the CAF playoff round, where they’ll battle for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Osimhen’s hat-trick — his second in World Cup qualifying — further cements his reputation as one of Africa’s most lethal strikers, giving Nigerian fans renewed hope ahead of the decisive playoff stage.