2026 WCQ: Osimhen’s Hat-trick earns Nigeria play-off hopes
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick helped the Super Eagles of Nigeria defeat the Benin Republic 4-0 in Uyo on Tuesday night, securing a place in the playoffs of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers.
The Super Eagles put on one of their most complete displays of the qualifying campaign, highlighted by an inspired performance from Victor Osimhen, who scored a wonderful hat-trick before Frank Onyeka finished the scoring late on.
It took Nigeria just three minutes to break the deadlock, with Osimhen firing home from a clever pass by Samuel Chukwueze to give the hosts an early lead.
The Galatasaray striker doubled the advantage midway through the first half, rising highest to head home another Chukwueze delivery.
Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute with a composed finish to all but seal the result, further underlining why he remains one of Africa’s top strikers.
Nigeria continued to push forward, with substitutes Olakunle Olusegun and Terem Moffi adding fresh energy in attack.
Benin, despite trailing heavily, still had a mathematical chance of finishing second but failed to capitalize on their few opportunities. Their frustration was compounded late on when Frank Onyeka added 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.
