Nigeria ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign in style with a commanding 4–0 win over Benin Republic on Tuesday evening in Uyo — but it wasn’t enough to secure automatic qualification.
The Super Eagles entered the decisive clash needing a big win and a favourable result elsewhere to keep their World Cup hopes alive. They delivered their part early, as Victor Osimhen opened the scoring within three minutes to set the tone at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
Osimhen struck again just before half-time with a powerful header to double Nigeria’s advantage, putting Eric Chelle’s men firmly in control. The Galatasaray striker completed his hat-trick midway through the second half, before Frank Onyeka capped the rout with a superb late volley.
Despite the emphatic result, Nigeria’s joy was tempered by news from Nelspruit, where South Africa comfortably defeated Rwanda 3–0 to finish top of Group C and clinch the automatic qualification ticket.
The victory leaves the Super Eagles second in the group and now hoping to qualify via the best runners-up route, as the race for the remaining African slots continues.
Full-time: Nigeria 4–0 Benin Republic
Goals: Osimhen (3’, 42’, 64’), Onyeka (88’)
Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CAF)
