Despite a convincing 4-0 win over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, the Super Eagles of Nigeria failed to secure automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick and Frank Onyeka’s goal secured the vital victory for Nigeria, but it was not enough to top the group, as South Africa also defeated Rwanda 3-0 to take that spot.
South Africa topped the group with 18 points, while Nigeria closely followed in second place with 17 points.
With 17 points, Nigeria stands a strong chance of qualifying as one of the best runners-up, which would give the West Africans a second opportunity to reach the World Cup through the play-offs.
Eric Chelle’s side delivered their best performance of a disappointing CAF Group C campaign, with Osimhen racing through the defense to score the opening goal in the third minute.
The Galatasaray striker delivered a brilliant header just eight minutes before halftime, brilliantly set up once again by Samuel Chukwueze’s precise assist.
Although Chukwueze was forced off at halftime due to injury, Moses Simon stepped in to provide the perfect pass for Osimhen to complete his hat-trick and claim the match ball.
However, with South Africa defeating Rwanda 3-0 to claim the top spot and automatic qualification, Nigeria still needed one more goal to secure a place in the playoffs that will decide CAF’s representative in the inter-confederation playoffs.
That crucial goal came in spectacular fashion in the 90th minute, as Moses Simon dribbled to the byline and delivered a perfectly chipped cross, which substitute Frank Onyeka volleyed emphatically into the net.
Onyeka’s goal ignited jubilant celebrations, boosting Nigeria’s goal difference above that of Burkina Faso, the runners-up in Group A, and securing them third place in the overall second-place standings.
This means that even if DR Congo wins against Sudan later on Tuesday, Nigeria is virtually assured a spot in the upcoming four-team playoff, where CAF’s representative for the inter-confederation playoffs will be decided.
Benin entered the day atop Group C, poised on the brink of their historic first World Cup qualification. But their hopes were dashed when they faced a revitalized Nigerian team that showed up exactly when it mattered most.
Channels news
