The Super Eagles of Nigeria on Tuesday defeated the Cheetahs of Benin Republic 4-0 in a decisive 2026 World Cup qualification at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick and Frank Onyka’s goal were not enough to give Nigeria the qualification tickets, as leaders South Africa, also secured 3 points by beating Rwanda 3-0, qualifying for the World Cup tournament in United States of America, Canada and Mexico in 2026.
However, If Nigeria wins the upcoming CAF Playoff, which will see them face tough competition from Gabon, Cameroon, and DR Congo, the Super Eagles will advance to the Inter-Confederation World Cup Playoffs.
Crucially, Nigeria will be seeded in the global playoff, thanks to their strong FIFA ranking.
This seeding gives the Super Eagles a better advantage, they will skip the semi final and play only the final match in Mexico for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup should they win the decisive final Nigeria will officially qualify for the World Cup, joining other other African nations that have already secured their spots.
All matches will be hosted in Morocco from November 13 -16, 2025, and serving as the neutral venues for the entire Playoff.
The winner of the Playoff will advance to the Inter-Continental Playoff in March 2026, the final qualification hurdle for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
A lifeline for the Super Eagles, and a chance for redemption on the global stage.
-9News Nigeria.
