Nigeria’s Super Eagles have moved one step closer to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dominant 4-0 victory over Benin Republic secured their qualification for the intercontinental playoffs set for November 2025.
Playing at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the Super Eagles delivered one of their most convincing performances of the qualifying campaign. Leading the charge was star striker Victor Osimhen, who produced a sensational hat-trick that broke Benin’s resistance and ignited the home crowd. Frank Onyeka added a fourth late in the second half, capping off a commanding display and boosting Nigeria’s goal difference.
The result means Nigeria finished among the four best runners-up in Africa’s qualifying series, earning one of the continent’s coveted slots in the intercontinental playoff tournament. They now join Cameroon and Gabon, who have also confirmed their places.
The playoff, organized by FIFA, will bring together six teams from across the world to compete for the final two spots at the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The tournament will feature one representative each from Africa (CAF), South America (CONMEBOL), Asia (AFC), and Oceania (OFC), along with two teams from North and Central America (CONCACAF). The format will see the four lowest-ranked teams compete in two semi-final matches. The two highest-ranked sides will skip directly to the finals. Winners of the final matches will claim the last two qualification spots for the World Cup.
With their qualification now confirmed, Nigeria will shift focus to preparations for the November 2025 mini-tournament. The Super Eagles, who missed out on the 2022 edition in Qatar, are determined to return to the global stage and believe they have the talent and depth to succeed.
Tuesday’s victory was not just a statement of intent but also a reminder of Nigeria’s pedigree in African football. With Victor Osimhen in top form and the squad hitting rhythm at the right time, confidence is high heading into the next and final phase of qualification. The road to North America continues — and the Super Eagles are flying.
