By AnchorNews Sports Desk

Nigeria’s Super Eagles stormed into the African play-offs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dominant 4 - 0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, on Tuesday evening.

Leading the charge was Victor Osimhen, who delivered a sensational hat-trick to inspire a resurgent Nigerian side. Substitute Frank Onyeka added a late fourth to crown an emphatic display that secured the Eagles’ passage to the next qualifying stage.

From the blast of the whistle, Nigeria imposed themselves on the game, showing purpose, aggression, and attacking flair that had been missing in previous outings. The early pressure paid off almost instantly. In the third minute, Samuel Chukwueze sliced through the Beninese defence and set up Osimhen, who calmly slotted home to ignite wild celebrations among the home fans.

Chukwueze and Osimhen continued to combine with devastating effect, and in the 37th minute, the partnership yielded another goal. The AC Milan winger delivered a teasing cross that Osimhen powered into the net with a trademark header to make it 2 - 0 before halftime.

Six minutes after the restart, Osimhen completed his hat-trick in style. Rising above the defence, he nodded in Moses Simon’s well-placed free-kick to stretch Nigeria’s lead and put the result beyond doubt. It was a performance that underlined the Napoli forward’s class and his status as one of Africa’s deadliest finishers.

Coach Eric Chelle’s substitutions in the second half maintained the team’s tempo. The introduction of Olakunle Olusegun, Bruno Onyemaechi, and Frank Onyeka added fresh energy to the attack. Onyeka eventually capped the night’s display in stoppage time, smashing in a fourth goal after a neat assist from Simon.

Benin rarely threatened, with Stanley Nwabali enjoying a quiet evening in goal. The defensive pairing of Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi stood firm, while full-backs Zaidu Sanusi and Bright Osayi-Samuel provided width and support in attack.

With the victory, Nigeria secured one of the four best second-placed spots to advance to the World Cup play-offs, amassing 15 points and a +7 goal difference. The win also marked the Super Eagles’ biggest goal margin since September 2023.

Osimhen’s treble takes his national team tally to 29 goals - just eight shy of Rashidi Yekini’s long-standing record, reigniting fans’ belief in the team’s attacking potential.

As chants of “Osimhen! Osimhen!” echoed through the Uyo stadium, the Super Eagles left the pitch to a standing ovation, their confidence restored ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations later this year.

For Coach Chelle and his men, the message was clear: the Eagles are back, strong, ruthless, and ready for the world stage.