Victor Osimhen was in unstoppable form on Tuesday night, firing a sensational hat-trick to lead Nigeria to a dominant 4-0 victory over Benin Republic and boost the Super Eagles’ chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Galatasaray striker wasted no time announcing his presence, putting Nigeria ahead just three minutes into the game after latching onto a clever through ball from Samuel Chukwueze. He doubled the lead in the 37th minute with a powerful header before completing his hat-trick early in the second half with another clinical nod in the 51st minute.
Frank Onyeka of Brentford sealed the emphatic win with a well-placed finish in the final minute of regulation time.
Despite the victory, Nigeria finished second in Group C with 17 points—two behind group leaders South Africa, who secured automatic qualification for the World Cup.
The Super Eagles, however, still have a lifeline as they advance to the playoff round, where they will battle for a spot in the 2026 mundial.