🇳🇬 Osimhen Fires Nigeria Past Benin 4–0 With Stunning Hat-Trick, Secures World Cup Playoff Spot

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Nigeria’s Super Eagles stormed into the CAF playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a sensational 4–0 win over Benin Republic on Monday, October 14, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.

Star striker Victor Osimhen was the hero of the night, netting a brilliant hat-trick that sent fans into a frenzy and reaffirmed his place as Africa’s most lethal finisher. The Napoli forward opened the scoring in the 12th minute, doubled the lead before halftime, and completed his treble midway through the second half.

Midfielder Frank Onyeka added the icing on the cake with a powerful strike in stoppage time, sealing a dominant performance that ended Benin’s qualification hopes and boosted Nigeria’s goal difference enough to claim a playoff spot.

With this victory, Nigeria advances to face Gabon in the CAF playoff semifinals, while South Africa secures direct qualification as group leaders. The winner of Nigeria vs. Gabon will go on to battle the victor of Cameroon vs. DR Congo for Africa’s intercontinental playoff berth.

The match marked a statement of intent from coach Finidi George’s side, whose attacking rhythm, composure, and defensive solidity drew praise from fans and analysts alike.

Osimhen, speaking after the game, dedicated his goals to “every Nigerian who never stopped believing.” He added, “We know what this means to the country — we’re not done yet. The World Cup ticket is our goal.”

As the Super Eagles soar closer to a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the team’s renewed confidence and cohesion signal a promising resurgence for Nigerian football on the global stage.