Victor Osimhen Hat-Trick Destroys Benin’s World Cup Dream As Nigeria Roar Back To Life

Benin Republic’s 2026 FIFA World Cup dreams were shattered on Tuesday evening after a crushing 4-0 defeat to Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.

The Cheetahs entered the decisive Group C clash leading Nigeria by two points and needed only a draw to keep their qualification hopes alive.

However, they were undone by Victor Osimhen’s brilliance, as the Napoli forward struck a devastating hat-trick to keep the Super Eagles’ campaign alive and end Benin’s hopes of reaching their first-ever World Cup.

Benin’s Dream Turns Into a Nightmare

Benin had reason to believe they could finally rewrite history, having beaten Nigeria just once in their 24 previous encounters. Their performance in the qualifiers had raised hopes of a maiden appearance at football’s biggest stage, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026.

But Osimhen had other plans. His two first-half goals gave Nigeria complete control, leaving the Cheetahs with a mountain to climb after the break.

Despite their best efforts, Benin failed to find a way back into the game, and Osimhen completed his hat-trick in the second half, sealing a heartbreaking end to their campaign.

Victor Osimhen Hat-Trick Keeps Nigeria Play-Off Hopes Alive

The victory saw South Africa leapfrog Benin to claim top spot in Group C with 18 points, earning Bafana Bafana a place at next year’s global showpiece. It marks their first qualification through competitive means since the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan.

Nigeria, meanwhile, kept their hopes alive of advancing as one of the best second-placed teams. Frank Onyeka added a fourth goal in added time to boost their goal difference and strengthen their case for a play-off spot in Morocco this November.

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