October 14, (THEWILL) — Nigeria kept their 2026 World Cup campaign alive with a commanding 4-0 win over Benin at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium on Tuesday evening. The Super Eagles claimed second place in Group C behind South Africa, advancing to the next round after claiming one of the best fourth-placed spots amongst the nine group runners-up.
Victor Osimhen delivered a clinical performance, netting three goals to lead Eric Chelle’s side to victory. The striker opened the scoring in the third minute after Samuel Chukwueze split the defence with a precise pass, allowing Osimhen to finish inside the right post. Chukwueze turned provider again on 37 minutes, delivering a cross that Osimhen headed home at the far post to double the advantage before half-time.
The Galatasaray forward completed his hat-trick six minutes into the second half, meeting Moses Simon’s free-kick with a header that struck the underside of the crossbar and crossed the line. Osimhen nearly added a fourth goal 11 minutes from time, but goalkeeper Dandjinou produced an outstanding save to deny his header. The forward was substituted shortly after to warm applause from the home supporters.
Frank Onyeka added a fourth goal in stoppage time, firing low into the bottom left corner following good work from Simon down the left flank. Nigeria had entered the fixture three points behind group leaders Benin following victories for both nations on October 10, but the comprehensive win on goal difference secured their progression.
Gernot Rohr’s Benin side struggled to contain the hosts despite creating occasional opportunities. Steve Mounie fired straight at Stanley Nwabali from close range on 14 minutes, whilst Andreas Hountondji hit the side-netting from an angle shortly afterwards. The visitors could not find a way past Nigeria’s defence throughout the 90 minutes.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
