Osimhen Scores a hat-trick as Nigeria keeps World Cup Hopes Alive
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick powered Nigeria to a 4–0 victory over Benin Republic, securing a spot in the African playoffs and keeping their 2026 World Cup hopes alive.
Victor Osimhen delivered a masterclass in finishing as Nigeria overwhelmed Benin Republic in Uyo on Tuesday. His three goals were instrumental in the Super Eagles’ commanding 4–0 win, a result that keeps them in contention for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup via the playoff route.
Despite the dominant performance, Nigeria fell just short of automatic qualification. South Africa clinched the top position in Group C with a 3–0 win over Rwanda in Johannesburg, leaving Nigeria one point behind. Osimhen’s brilliance at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium reaffirmed his reputation as one of Africa’s top strikers. The Galatasaray star netted twice in the first half and completed his hat-trick shortly after the break. Frank Onyeka, coming off the bench, added a fourth goal in stoppage time to cap off the night.
Nigeria entered the match needing both a win and favourable results elsewhere. While they delivered one of their most complete performances of the campaign, earlier draws against Lesotho and Zimbabwe ultimately cost them the top spot.
The Super Eagles wasted no time asserting control. Osimhen opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, assisted by Samuel Chukwueze. The duo linked up again in the 37th minute for Osimhen’s second goal. His third came six minutes into the second half, this time set up by Moses Simon. Onyeka’s late strike sent the home crowd into celebration.
Coach Eric Chelle’s squad maintained dominance throughout, with standout contributions from captain Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi. Late substitutions, including Tolu Arokodare and Terem Moffi replacing Osimhen and Iwobi, helped secure the emphatic result.
With this win, Nigeria advances to the African playoffs scheduled for November in Morocco. The four best second-placed teams across the continent will compete for a single spot in the intercontinental playoffs. The winner will then face teams from Asia, Oceania, and the Americas next March for one of the final two World Cup berths.
Seven African nations have already secured their places at the tournament: Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Cape Verde, South Africa, and most recently, Bafana Bafana. Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal are expected to complete the list.
Sources: .
