Victor Osimhen reminded everyone why he’s one of Africa’s most feared strikers, bagging a sensational hat-trick as the Super Eagles of Nigeria thrashed Benin Republic 4-0 in Uyo. Despite the emphatic win, the result wasn’t enough to secure an automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nigeria’s hopes of topping Group C were dashed after South Africa’s Bafana Bafana cruised to a 3-0 victory over Rwanda, finishing as group winners with 18 points. The Super Eagles ended in second place with 17 points enough to earn a playoff spot in Morocco this November.
Osimhen was simply unstoppable at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, thrilling fans with his pace, power, and precision. The Galatasaray forward opened the scoring in the third minute after racing onto a clever through ball from Samuel Chukwueze and coolly slotting home.
He came close again in the 22nd minute, heading just wide from another Chukwueze cross, but he made no mistake in the 37th minute rising highest to double Nigeria’s lead with a powerful header past the Benin Republic goalkeeper.
After the restart, Osimhen completed his hat-trick with a clinical finish, sealing a memorable night for the Super Eagles. Substitute Frank Onyeka then put the icing on the cake with Nigeria’s fourth goal, capping off a dominant display.
Head coach Eric Chelle made a few tactical changes from the previous match, with Akor Adams, Samuel Chukwueze, Semi Ajayi, and Zaidu Sanusi returning to the starting lineup. Newcomer Olakunle Olusegun also made his debut, coming on at the start of the second half.
Although the Super Eagles couldn’t secure automatic qualification, their commanding performance in Uyo reignited belief among fans that Nigeria can still make it to the World Cup through the playoffs.
With Osimhen in red-hot form and confidence restored, all eyes will now turn to Morocco in November where the Super Eagles will fight to book their place on football’s biggest stage.
