Super Eagles End Qualifiers in Style With 4–0 Win Over Benin Republic, But Questions Remain
The Super Eagles delivered a commanding performance on Tuesday night, thrashing Benin Republic 4–0 in their final 2026 World Cup qualifier in Uyo.
It was a night when everything finally clicked. Victor Osimhen stole the show with a spectacular hat-trick, silencing critics and reminding fans why he remains the heartbeat of Nigerian football. Frank Onyeka added a fine fourth late on to seal a result that had the Uyo crowd singing long after the final whistle.
Yet, despite the emphatic victory, Nigeria’s qualification fate remains uncertain. With South Africa defeating Rwanda 3–0 to claim the top spot in Group C, the Super Eagles must now hope to qualify through one of the four best runners-up slots from Africa.
Still, beyond the scoreline, there were valuable lessons and reflections from the match:
1️⃣ Play-off Hope Still Alive
The 4–0 victory might not have secured an automatic ticket, but it has kept Nigeria in strong contention for a play-off berth. After a rocky start to the campaign, Eric Chelle’s men showed the fighting spirit that once defined the Super Eagles—proving that they still have the fire to compete among the best.
2️⃣ Rohr’s Revenge Denied
There was a touch of personal drama in this encounter. Former Super Eagles boss Gernot Rohr, now in charge of Benin, would have relished a chance to humble his old team on home soil. But Osimhen and co. made sure that script never saw daylight, reminding the German tactician of what he once had—and what he could not achieve.
3️⃣ Never Doubt Osimhen
Before kickoff, some frustrated fans had taken to social media to vent their anger at the team—and even at Osimhen. But the Galatasaray striker answered the best way he knows how: with goals. His hat-trick was a statement—a reminder that form may dip, but class is permanent. He now stands just eight goals behind Rashidi Yekini’s all-time record of 37, a milestone that suddenly feels within reach.
4️⃣ Saving the Best for Last
This performance left many fans asking the same question: Where was this energy all along? The crisp passes, the hunger, the chemistry—it was all there. If the Super Eagles had played this way earlier in the qualifiers, qualification would have been sealed weeks ago. Still, it was a joy to watch, and it gave a glimpse of what this team could become under the right mindset and leadership.
✍🏽 Opinion: A Night of Redemption—But Not Yet of Triumph
For once, Nigerian fans could celebrate—not just the goals, but the passion, teamwork, and commitment that had been missing in recent games. The players looked united, and the crowd responded with renewed belief.
Yet, this win should not hide the truth: the Super Eagles have made qualifying harder than it needed to be. They have the talent to dominate Africa, but inconsistency continues to haunt them.
Still, Tuesday night reminded everyone of the power of the Nigerian spirit—the ability to rise just when it seems all hope is gone. If they can carry this same fire into the play-offs, the road to the World Cup may still have green and white footprints on it.
Because when Osimhen roars, Nigeria listens. And when the Super Eagles fly like this, the continent takes notice.
