Nigeria’s Super Eagles have secured a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoffs after thrashing Benin Republic 4-0 in a crucial qualifier match on Tuesday evening.
The match, played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, saw Victor Osimhen shine brightly with a sensational hat-trick. Midfielder Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal to seal a commanding win for Nigeria.
The victory not only gave the Super Eagles three vital points but also improved their goal difference, helping them finish as one of the best runners-up in the African qualifying series.
So far, Nigeria joins Gabon and Cameroon as the three African nations that have qualified for the next stage — a mini-tournament playoff scheduled for November 2025.
This upcoming FIFA playoff tournament will determine the final two teams that will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The mini-tournament will feature six teams: two from North and Central America (CONCACAF), and one each from Africa (CAF), South America (CONMEBOL), Asia (AFC), and Oceania (OFC).
According to FIFA’s format, the four lowest-ranked teams will play in two knockout semi-final matches. The two highest-ranked teams in the tournament will automatically move to the finals. The winners of the two final games will earn a place in the 2026 World Cup.
Nigeria’s qualification marks a strong comeback after missing out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Under the guidance of head coach Finidi George, the Super Eagles showed sharpness, unity, and determination in their campaign.
Victor Osimhen, who currently plays for Napoli in Italy, was the star of the night. His three goals reminded Nigerians why he remains one of Africa’s top strikers.
The Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) also praised the team’s performance and urged Nigerians to keep supporting the Super Eagles as they push for a return to the global stage.
With the playoffs still over a year away, Nigeria will be watching closely to see which other teams qualify and how the final matchups will be determined.
The Super Eagles now have the chance to fight for a spot in the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup — a tournament that promises more African representation and tougher competition.
For Nigerian fans, the dream of seeing their team back at football’s biggest stage is alive again and Tuesday’s emphatic win over Benin shows they may just be ready for it.
