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The Super Eagles of Nigeria ran riot in Uyo with a 4-0 thrashing of the Benin Republic, but Victor Osimhen’s dazzling hat-trick could not save them from losing the Group C automatic qualification ticket to South Africa in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
Despite the emphatic win at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, South Africa sealed top spot in Group C after a commanding 3-0 victory over Rwanda in Johannesburg. The result means Nigeria finished second with 17 points, just one behind the Bafana Bafana, who amassed 18 points to clinch the group’s only automatic World Cup slot.
Osimhen gave Nigeria a dream start in the third minute after a clever assist from Samuel Chukwueze. The Galatasaray striker doubled the lead in the 37th minute, again connecting beautifully with another Chukwueze delivery inside the box. He completed his hat-trick six minutes into the second half, pouncing on a defensive lapse to make it 3-0.
Frank Onyeka added a late fourth goal in added time to wrap up what looked like a perfect night for the Super Eagles.
However, the joy in Uyo was cut short as news filtered in that South Africa had maintained their lead against Rwanda, ending Nigeria’s hopes of automatic qualification.
According to the latest standings, South Africa finished first with five wins, three draws, and two losses, while Nigeria came second with four wins and five draws from ten matches. Benin ended third with 17 points but an inferior goal difference.
Still, all hope is not lost for Nigeria. The Super Eagles remain in contention for a World Cup spot as one of the four best second-placed teams who will feature in a mini-tournament in Morocco in November. The winners of that playoff will advance to the intercontinental playoffs for a final shot at reaching the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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