BREAKING: Despite Osimhen’s Hat-Trick, Eagles Lose Automatic 2026 World Cup Ticket To South Africa, But There’s Still Hope -See How
Osimhen’s Hat-Trick Not Enough As South Africa Clinch Group C
It was a night of brilliance mixed with heartbreak in Uyo. Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s talismanic striker, delivered a stunning hat-trick as the Super Eagles demolished Benin Republic 4–0 in their final Group C World Cup qualifier.
But despite the dominant display, news from Johannesburg brought heartbreak — South Africa’s 3–0 win over Rwanda meant they topped the group and clinched the automatic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Match Summary: Osimhen Shines Bright
The Super Eagles began on the front foot, showing attacking intent from kickoff.
Osimhen opened the scoring inside 15 minutes with a composed finish after capitalizing on a defensive error.
He doubled Nigeria’s lead before the break with a powerful strike, and early in the second half, the Napoli superstar completed his hat-trick — his second career treble in national colors.
Frank Onyeka later added a fourth goal to seal a memorable performance for Nigeria. The team dominated possession, created multiple chances, and defended resolutely — but their fate ultimately depended on results elsewhere.
Group C Standings: Nigeria Fall Just Short
South Africa’s consistency through the campaign paid off.
They finished top of Group C with 19 points, while Nigeria ended second with 17 points, despite being unbeaten in their last five matches.
That slim gap made all the difference — and left Nigeria chasing their dream through the CAF playoff route.
Slim Hope Still Alive Through CAF Playoffs
All hope is not lost.
Under the new CAF World Cup qualifying format, the best second-placed teams across all groups will enter a playoff round. Winners of these matches will then move into the inter-confederation playoffs, where they can still earn a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With their superior goal difference from the 4–0 win, Nigeria remain one of the leading runners-up, keeping their qualification dream alive.
It’s now a waiting game — and the Super Eagles must stay focused, prepared, and united for the knockout battle ahead.
Reactions: Joy and Frustration Across Nigeria
Fans took to social media to celebrate Osimhen’s brilliance but expressed frustration that it didn’t translate to an automatic ticket.
“Osimhen gave everything tonight. This team has spirit — we’ll still make it to the World Cup,” one fan wrote on X (Twitter).
Pundits described the performance as a “statement win with painful consequences,” urging the NFF to strengthen the team’s tactical structure before the playoffs.
What the Super Eagles Must Do Next
1. Await CAF’s final confirmation of playoff pairings.
2. Intensify preparation for the knockout fixtures — mentally and physically.
3. Keep key players fit, including Osimhen, Iheanacho, and Onyeka.
4. Address midfield creativity and improve defensive communication
5. Maintain confidence — momentum from this big win could prove decisive later.
Victor Osimhen gave Nigeria a night to remember — a hat-trick full of passion, precision, and pride.
But football can be cruel. Despite their best efforts, the Super Eagles must now take the longer road through the CAF playoff route to reach the 2026 World Cup.
Still, with Osimhen firing on all cylinders, hope remains very much alive.
