Super Eagles Of Nigeria Lose Automatic 2026 FIFA World Cup Ticket To South Africa Despite Osimhen’s Hat-Trick
In a bittersweet evening at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, the Super Eagles of Nigeria produced a dominant 4-0 victory over Benin Republic but it wasn’t enough to secure the automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup as South Africa clinched the top spot in the Group
Despite Victor Osimhen’s sensational hat-trick and a commanding team performance that thrilled home fans, Nigeria’s fate was sealed elsewhere. The result in Johannesburg, where South Africa defeated Rwanda 3-0, meant Bafana Bafana finished top of the group, edging Nigeria by just one points.
From kickoff, the Super Eagles displayed intent, aggression, and precision. Osimhen struck twice in the first half, capitalizing on defensive lapses from the Beninese backline. His third goal came in the second half. A classic poacher’s finish that sent the Akwa Ibom crowd into wild celebration. Onyeka completed the rout with a late strike, sealing Nigeria’s most convincing win of the qualifiers.
However, jubilation quickly turned to frustration as news filtered in that South Africa had also won convincingly, leaving Nigeria’s automatic qualification hopes shattered. The Super Eagles will now have to navigate the playoff rounds to secure their ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
“We gave everything today, and the boys showed the true spirit of Nigerian football. Unfortunately, results elsewhere didn’t go our way. We’ll regroup and fight again in the playoffs,” Super Eagles Coach said during the post-match press conference.
Osimhen, who was named Man of the Match, also voiced mixed emotions.
“I’m happy for the goals, but our dream was to qualify directly. We’ll keep believing — Nigeria will be in the World Cup,” he affirmed confidently.
The atmosphere in Uyo remained electric even after the final whistle, with fans applauding the team’s determination and hoping for redemption in the coming playoff fixtures.
While the Super Eagles’ 4-0 demolition of Benin showcased their attacking brilliance, the missed automatic ticket serves as a painful reminder that consistency throughout qualification remains key. All eyes now turn to the playoff stage, where Nigeria must prove once again that they are worthy of a place among the world’s best come 2026.
