Nigeria: Nigeria secures playoff spot in 2026 World Cup qualifiers
By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria
The Super Eagles of Nigeria have kept their World Cup hopes alive with a resounding 4-0 victory over Benin in Uyo, securing a place in the playoffs of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
The match saw an inspired performance from Victor Osimhen, who netted a superb hat-trick. The Galatasaray striker opened the scoring in the third minute, doubling the lead with a header midway through the first half. He completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute with a composed finish.
Frank Onyeka rounded off the scoring late on, adding a fourth goal in the 90th minute after a brilliant run and cross from Moses Simon.
The result means Nigeria finishes second in Group C and advances to the playoff stage of the CAF qualifiers, keeping alive their dream of booking a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
