By Nigeria climbed to second place in Group C after a dominant 4-0 victory over Benin in their final CAF World Cup qualifier. Going into the match, Nigeria sat third in Group C with 14 points, one point behind second-placed South Africa and three behind leaders Benin. However, the Super Eagles took matters into their own hands, thrashing Benin 4-0 to climb into second place.
Their dominant display not only boosted their goal difference but also ensured they finished among the four best runners-up in the CAF qualifiers, earning a spot in the intercontinental playoff for a chance to reach the World Cup.
Meanwhile, South Africa sealed the top spot in Group C with a 3-0 win over Rwanda, confirming their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010.
A hat-trick from Victor Osimhen and a stoppage-time strike from Frank Onyeka guided Nigeria to a commanding 4-0 victory over Benin in their final CAF World Cup qualifier.
The result moves the Super Eagles into second place in Group C, securing a spot in the interconfederation playoffs, where they will fight for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
In the group’s other fixture, South Africa defeated Rwanda 3-0 to top the group and seal direct qualification for their first World Cup appearance since hosting the tournament in 2010.
Hat-trick from Victor Osimhen guided Nigeria to a commanding victory over Benin
Onyeka’s late goal capped off a strong performance from Nigeria. The substitute converted a low cross from Moses Simon, drilling a right-footed shot into the bottom corner before celebrating in front of jubilant Nigerian supporters.
The defeat ends Benin’s hopes of qualifying for their first-ever World Cup. The team, who began the day as group leaders, drop to third following the heavy loss.
So far, seven African nations have booked their place at the 2026 World Cup: Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Tunisia, Cape Verde, and South Africa. Two more spots will be decided later today, while one additional team will qualify through the interconfederation playoffs.
