Nigeria’s Super Eagles delivered a commanding 4-0 victory against Benin’s Cheetahs in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier at Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.
Victor Osimhen’s stunning hat-trick and a late goal from substitute Frank Onyeka secured three points for Nigeria, though South Africa’s 3-0 win over Rwanda clinched their World Cup spot for 2026 in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Match Highlights
The Super Eagles made four changes from their previous victory against Lesotho. Wilfred Ndidi captained the side, with Moses Simon marking his 85th appearance. Victor Osimhen and Akor Adams led the attack.
The lineup included Stanley Nwabali (GK), Benjamin Fredrick, Zaidu Sanusi, Ndidi, Semi Ajayi, Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Simon, Alex Iwobi, Adams, and Calvin Bassey.
Substitutes included Adebayo, Ekong, Arokodare, Onyeka, Onyemaechi, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Uche, Moffi, and Olusegun.
First Half: Osimhen Shines
The match erupted early when Osimhen scored in the third minute, capitalizing on a precise cross from Chukwueze. Benin pushed for an equalizer by the 12th minute, but Calvin Bassey thwarted their effort.
Nigeria dominated possession, holding 58% compared to Benin’s 42% at the 14-minute mark, with both teams recording one shot on target.
In the 22nd minute, Osimhen nearly doubled the lead, but a composed Benin defender blocked his attempt.
However, in the 38th minute, Osimhen struck again, converting another Chukwueze cross to make it 2-0. The referee added five minutes of stoppage time, but the score held at halftime.
Second Half: Nigeria’s Dominance Continues
Benin started the second half aggressively, pressing the Super Eagles’ defense. Undeterred, Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute, further solidifying Nigeria’s lead. The Super Eagles kept up the pressure, seeking a fourth goal.
In the 68th minute, Ndidi squandered a chance, but substitute Frank Onyeka sealed the 4-0 rout in the 90th minute with a powerful shot past Benin’s goalkeeper.
Impact and Outlook
Despite the emphatic win, Nigeria’s World Cup qualification hopes remain uncertain as South Africa secured the group’s top spot.
The Super Eagles’ performance, driven by Osimhen’s clinical finishing and Chukwueze’s playmaking, showcased their attacking prowess.
The team’s resilience and depth, highlighted by Onyeka’s contribution off the bench, signal a strong foundation for future matches.
This victory underscores Nigeria’s determination to compete at the highest level. Fans now await the next qualifiers, hoping the Super Eagles can build on this momentum to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
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