The Super Eagles’ dream of securing an automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in heartbreak last night, despite a stunning 4–0 victory over Benin Republic in Uyo.

Victor Osimhen was the hero of the night, netting a brilliant hat-trick in front of a jubilant home crowd at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. Yet, even his brilliance could not change Nigeria’s fate, as South Africa’s emphatic 3–0 win over Rwanda in Johannesburg ensured the Bafana Bafana clinched Group C’s sole automatic qualification slot.

The night began on a high note for Nigeria. Osimhen opened the scoring in the third minute after latching onto a fine assist from Samuel Chukwueze. The duo combined again in the 37th minute, with the Galatasaray forward doubling Nigeria’s lead through another composed finish.

Six minutes into the second half, Osimhen completed his hat-trick, capitalising on a defensive mix-up to make it 3–0. Midfielder Frank Onyeka added a fourth goal in stoppage time, sealing what initially appeared to be a perfect night for the Super Eagles.

But the celebrations were short-lived. As the final whistle blew in Uyo, confirmation came that South Africa had maintained their lead over Rwanda, finishing the qualifiers with 18 points—just one ahead of Nigeria’s 17. Benin Republic also ended the campaign with 17 points but fell short due to an inferior goal difference.

According to the final standings, South Africa recorded five wins, three draws, and two losses to top Group C, while Nigeria managed four wins and five draws in ten matches.

Despite missing out on direct qualification, the Super Eagles are still in the race for a World Cup berth. Nigeria remains one of the top four second-placed teams that will compete in a mini-tournament slated for November in Morocco. The winners of that playoff will then advance to the intercontinental playoffs for a final chance to book a spot at the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.