Super Eagles Crush Benin, Reach World Cup Playoffs

On Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a commanding 4-0 win against Benin Republic in Uyo, clinching their spot in the African playoffs for the 2026 World Cup.

The match showcased a stellar performance by Victor Osimhen, whose hat-trick propelled him to second place on Nigeria’s all-time goalscorers’ list.

Osimhen’s Historic Performance

The Napoli forward, Victor Osimhen, stole the spotlight with three goals, bringing his international tally to 29 in 43 matches.

He now trails only Rashidi Yekini’s record of 37 goals in 62 games, set over 20 years ago. Osimhen struck early, scoring in the third minute after a precise pass from Samuel Chukwueze.

He added a second in the 37th minute with a powerful header and sealed his hat-trick in the second half off a Moses Simon free-kick. His performance has fans buzzing about his potential to surpass Yekini’s long-standing record.

Match Highlights

The Super Eagles dominated from the start, with Osimhen’s early goal setting the tone. His second strike showcased his aerial prowess, while the third demonstrated his knack for capitalizing on set pieces.

Late in the game, substitute Frank Onyeka sealed the victory with a stoppage-time goal, ensuring a comprehensive triumph.

The result sparked jubilation among supporters, boosting confidence in Nigeria’s World Cup aspirations.

Nigeria’s Top Goalscorers

As of October 2025, the Super Eagles’ all-time leading scorers are:

• Rashidi Yekini: 37 goals (62 games)

• Victor Osimhen: 29 goals (43 games)

• Segun Odegbami: 23 goals (46 games)

• Yakubu Aiyegbeni: 21 goals (57 games)

• Ikechukwu Uche: 19 goals (46 games)

• Obafemi Martins: 18 goals (48 games)

• Sunday Oyarekhua: 17 goals (28 games)

• Samson Siasia: 16 goals (51 games)

• Odion Ighalo: 16 goals (37 games)

• Ahmed Musa: 16 goals (109 games)

Road to the World Cup

The victory secures Nigeria’s place in the 2026 World Cup African playoffs, a critical step toward qualification.

Fans are optimistic, with Osimhen’s form signaling a strong campaign ahead. The team’s cohesive play, highlighted by contributions from Chukwueze, Simon, and Onyeka, underscores their potential to compete on the global stage.

A Bright Future

Osimhen’s rise to second on the goalscorers’ chart marks him as a generational talent, with the 26-year-old inching closer to Yekini’s record.

The win over Benin not only boosts team morale but also reignites national pride as Nigeria eyes a deep run in the World Cup qualifiers.

With the playoffs looming, the Super Eagles are poised to make a lasting impact.

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