Gabriel Samuel
The Super Eagles of Nigeria delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday evening, thrashing the Cheetahs of Benin Republic 4–0 in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen was the undisputed star of the encounter, netting a stunning hat-trick to guide Nigeria to a resounding victory, while Wilfred Ndidi captained the side in the absence of regular skipper, Troost Ekong.
Head coach Eric Chelle made four changes to the team that defeated Lesotho in their last outing, with Moses Simon earning his 85th international cap and partnering Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Akor Adams in attack alongside Osimhen.
The Super Eagles began the match on the front foot, dominating possession and pressing high. Their efforts paid off early when Osimhen opened the scoring in the 3rd minute, finishing off a fine assist from Chukwueze.
Benin attempted to respond with a quick counter-attack in the 12th minute, but Nigeria’s defence, marshalled by Calvin Bassey and Semi Ajayi, stood firm to preserve their lead.
In the 38th minute, Osimhen struck again, doubling Nigeria’s advantage after another precise cross from Chukwueze found him inside the box. The Eagles went into halftime with a comfortable 2–0 lead as the home fans roared their approval.
The second half began with the Cheetahs showing greater intent, but Nigeria quickly regained control. Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the 51st minute, turning the contest into a one-sided affair.
Captain Ndidi nearly extended the lead midway through the second half, but his 68th-minute effort sailed narrowly over the bar. Moments later, substitute Akor Adams came close to adding a fourth, but the Beninese goalkeeper denied him.
The pressure eventually paid off as Nigeria grabbed a fourth goal late in the game, sealing a memorable night in Uyo and reaffirming their qualification ambitions.
With the win, the Super Eagles maintain momentum in their World Cup qualifying campaign and extend their dominance over their West African neighbours.
Meanwhile, a slip by Uganda who lost 2-1 away in Algeria at the dying minutes of the game, gave Nigeria a chance to move to the World Cup Play-Off after South Africa Beat Rwanda 3-0 at home in the other Group C game to book the only automatic spot in the group. The other three countries that made it to the Play-Offs are Gabon, Cameroon and DR Congo.