2026 World Cup Qualifier: Osimhen Hat-Trick Not Enough As Super Eagles Miss Automatic Qualification

2026 World Cup Qualifier: Osimhen Hat-Trick Not Enough As Super Eagles Miss Automatic Qualification

Sampson Adedeji

Nigeria’s Super Eagles ended their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a high but heartbreakingly missed out on automatic qualification despite a 4-0 victory over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic on Tuesday, BSNSports com.ng reports.

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen was in sensational form, scoring a superb hat-trick two in the first half and one after the break to put Nigeria firmly in control of the encounter.

Brentford midfielder Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal late in the game to seal a commanding win for the Super Eagles.

However, the victory was not enough to secure Nigeria an automatic ticket to the 2026 World Cup. Group rivals South Africa claimed the top spot after defeating Rwanda 3-0 in Johannesburg, ensuring their direct qualification for the tournament.

Nigeria will now have to wait for the playoff round to keep their World Cup dreams alive.