In a statement performance that lit up Uyo, the Super Eagles of Nigeria crushed Benin Republic 4–0 in their final group game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, keeping their hopes of qualification alive.
First Half: Osimhen Sets the Tone Early
The match began at a blistering pace. Just three minutes in, Victor Osimhen fired Nigeria into the lead after a slick combination with Samuel Chukwueze, sending the home crowd into wild celebration.
Nigeria continued to dominate possession, forcing Benin deep into their own half. In the 37th minute, Osimhen doubled the lead with a powerful header, again created from a Chukwueze cross.
By halftime, Nigeria held a comfortable 2–0 advantage, fully in control of the tempo and rhythm of the game.
Second Half: A Statement of Dominance
Osimhen completed his hat-trick early in the second half, punishing a defensive lapse from Benin with a clinical finish.
In stoppage time, substitute Frank Onyeka sealed the emphatic victory, latching onto a cross from Moses Simon to make it 4–0.
The final whistle confirmed a commanding win — a performance full of intensity, precision, and intent.
Key Performers
- Victor Osimhen — A hat-trick hero and the heartbeat of Nigeria’s attack. His movement and finishing were world-class.
- Samuel Chukwueze — Delivered two assists and caused constant problems for the Benin defense.
- Frank Onyeka — Made an instant impact off the bench with a well-taken goal.
- Stanley Nwabali — Composed in goal, making key saves to keep the clean sheet intact.
What It Means for Nigeria
The victory pushes Nigeria into the CAF playoff stage, just shy of automatic qualification after South Africa secured top spot in the group.
Nigeria’s fate will now be decided in the high-stakes playoff, where a single slip could end their World Cup dream — but performances like this show they’re ready for the challenge.
Benin’s Painful Exit
For Benin, the loss was devastating. They entered the match with hopes of qualification but slipped from group leaders to third place, ending their campaign abruptly. Their collapse will likely trigger tough questions about preparation and game management.
Five Talking Points from the Match
- Explosive Start: Nigeria set the tone with an early goal and never let up.
- Osimhen’s Leadership: In a must-win match, the Napoli striker delivered under pressure.
- Team Cohesion: The Super Eagles looked sharper and more organized than in previous qualifiers.
- Playoff Challenge Ahead: The big win gives confidence, but the real test comes next.
- Benin’s Downfall: From top of the group to elimination — a brutal reminder of how fast fortunes can change in football.
The Road Ahead
Nigeria now faces the CAF playoff round, where they’ll battle other African heavyweights for a place in the 2026 World Cup. The victory against Benin will boost morale and send a warning to future opponents.
For Benin, the focus will turn to rebuilding and analyzing how a promising campaign unraveled so quickly.
Final Score: Nigeria 4 – 0 Benin Republic
Goal Scorers: Osimhen (3), Onyeka (1)
Man of the Match: Victor Osimhen
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