Nigeria’s hopes of securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup were dashed on Tuesday despite a dominant 4-0 victory over Benin Republic in their final group match.
A hat-trick from Victor Osimhen and a goal from Frank Onyeka sealed an emphatic win for the Super Eagles in Cotonou.
However, the result wasn’t enough, as South Africa simultaneously defeated Rwanda 3-0 to top the qualification group.
South Africa finished with 18 points, edging out Nigeria, who ended the campaign with 17 points, just one point short of automatic qualification.
Despite the disappointment, Nigeria remains in contention for a World Cup spot. The Super Eagles now stand a strong chance of advancing through the play-offs as one of the best runners-up across the African qualification groups.
The team will await official confirmation and further details on the play-off draw, which will determine their path forward in the quest for a place at the 2026 World Cup.
