Osimhen’s Hat-Trick lifts Super Eagles World Cup Qualification chances
Victor Osimhen answered his critics in emphatic fashion, scoring a sensational hat-trick to lead Nigeria to a 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo and revive the Super Eagles’ 2026 World Cup qualifying hopes.
The Napoli striker, who had been under scrutiny following Nigeria’s slow start to the qualifiers, produced a vintage centre-forward performance, full of hunger, movement, and clinical finishing, to give Eric Chelle’s side a vital lifeline.
The win, sealed by a late Frank Onyeka strike, puts Nigeria in contention to finish among the best second-placed teams in the CAF qualifying standings, potentially securing a playoff berth for the 2026 World Cup.
Osimhen Strikes Early and Often
Nigeria wasted no time setting the tone. Just three minutes in, Victor Osimhen latched onto a clever through ball, evaded his marker, and slotted home the opener — a much-needed statement after weeks of criticism about his form and leadership.
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Benin tried to settle into the game and offered brief attacking flashes, but Nigeria’s attacking intensity proved too much. Osimhen doubled the lead with a trademark header midway through the first half, rising highest to meet a cross and power the ball past the goalkeeper.
Early in the second half, the 25-year-old completed his hat-trick with another composed finish inside the box, marking his return to top form with his first treble in national colours since 2022.
Onyeka Adds the Finishing Touch
With Nigeria chasing goal difference to improve their qualification standing, the Super Eagles kept pressing in the final minutes. Their persistence paid off in stoppage time when substitute Frank Onyeka fired home a stunning volley from Moses Simon’s delivery to make it 4–0.
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The goal not only capped an excellent team performance but also provided a crucial boost in Nigeria’s pursuit of a top-four finish among CAF’s second-placed sides — a result that could define their qualification campaign.
Osimhen’s Redemption
Osimhen’s hat-trick silenced his critics and reaffirmed his status as Nigeria’s talisman. The forward’s all-action display — pressing, scoring, and inspiring — reminded fans of why he remains one of Africa’s most complete strikers.
“I never lost faith,” Osimhen said after the game. “We knew what was at stake and had to fight for the fans and the country. This win means everything.”
What’s Next for Nigeria
The Super Eagles now face a tense finish to their World Cup qualifying campaign. With South Africa and Rwanda still in the mix, Nigeria’s victory keeps their dream alive, but consistency will be key in the remaining fixtures.
For now, though, Uyo witnessed a night of redemption, belief, and brilliance from Victor Osimhen — the man who refused to let Nigeria’s World Cup hopes fade.
SportsLigue