W’CUP QUALIFIER: S’Eagles Win Over Benin Secures Playoff Spot

W’CUP QUALIFIER: S’Eagles Win Over Benin Secures Playoff Spot

Nigeria have booked their place in the 2026 World Cup qualifying playoffs after thrashing Benin Republic 4-0 on Tuesday evening.

The Super Eagles dominated at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, with Victor Osimhen netting a sensational hat-trick and Frank Onyeka sealing the win with a fourth goal.

The emphatic victory boosted Nigeria’s goal difference, earning them a spot among Africa’s top four runners-up who will compete in a mini-tournament in November 2025.

So far, Gabon and Cameroon have also confirmed their qualification alongside Nigeria.

The FIFA playoff tournament will feature six teams battling for the final two slots at the 2026 World Cup including two nations from CONCACAF and one each from CAF, AFC, CONMEBOL, and OFC.

The four lowest-ranked teams will clash in preliminary semi-finals, while the two highest-ranked nations will proceed straight to the finals.

Winners of those finals will clinch the remaining tickets to the 2026 World Cup.