Nigeria beat Benin 4-0, securing a 2026 World Cup playoff spot as a top African runner-up.

Victor Osimhen scored a hat-trick and Frank Onyeka added a late goal as Nigeria defeated Benin 4-0 in Uyo, securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup intercontinental playoffs as one of the four best runners-up. The win, combined with South Africa’s 3-0 victory over Rwanda, confirmed Nigeria’s advancement to the African playoff tournament. The Super Eagles finished third in the best runners-up standings, ensuring their place despite Burkina Faso’s potential challenge. The African playoff winner will face teams from other confederations in a March 2026 interconfederation playoff to earn the final two World Cup berths.