The Nigerian Super Eagles wrapped up their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign on a high, achieving back-to-back wins for the first time since the qualifiers commenced, as reported by Soccernet.ng.
Following a tight 2-1 victory over Lesotho, the Super Eagles delivered a dominant 4-0 performance against the Benin Republic in Uyo. These successive triumphs have rekindled hope among supporters and significantly bolstered Nigeria’s chances of securing a spot at the World Cup.
Guided by coach Eric Chelle, the squad showcased renewed vigor and determination, overcoming a difficult qualifying stretch that had tested the patience of fans nationwide.
Victor Osimhen led the frontline with exceptional leadership and clinical finishing, while Samuel Chukwueze impressed with his inventive playmaking. The entire team maintained high energy levels and tactical discipline throughout these pivotal fixtures.
Nigeria 4-0 Benin
Osimhen reignites Nigeria’s World Cup dreams with a hat-trick in Uyo against Benin Republic. #NGABEN pic.twitter.com/vquuiHnkyv
– Soccernet.ng (@soccernet_ng) October 14, 2025
These consecutive wins not only boosted Nigeria’s points tally in the group but also revealed several encouraging signs of progress and potential within the squad.
Eight Key Takeaways from Nigeria’s Vital Qualifying Encounters
1. Nigeria Achieves Its First Consecutive Wins in the 2026 Qualifiers
The Super Eagles’ back-to-back victories over Lesotho and Benin marked a significant breakthrough, ending a period of inconsistent results and injecting much-needed momentum into their World Cup qualification journey.
2. Osimhen Nets His First Hat-Trick in Two Years
Victor Osimhen thrilled fans by scoring his first international hat-trick since 2023. The Galatasaray striker’s trio of goals against Benin brought his overall tally for Nigeria to 29, edging him closer to Rashidi Yekini‘s iconic record of 37 goals.
3. Osimhen’s Six-Goal Haul in the Qualifiers
With his recent hat-trick, Osimhen has now amassed six goals in the 2026 World Cup qualifying matches, solidifying his role as Nigeria’s top marksman in the campaign.
4. Chukwueze’s Persistent Creative Spark
Samuel Chukwueze provided two assists during these fixtures, raising his total to five assists in the qualifiers. His improved vision and chemistry with Osimhen have been crucial in breaking down opposing defenses.
5. Frank Onyeka Ends Nearly Two-Year Goal Drought
Midfielder Frank Onyeka broke his scoring silence by netting his second international goal against Benin, ending a dry spell that stretched back to his last goal versus Mozambique in 2023.
6. Olakunle Olusegun Registers His First Competitive Goal
Winger Olakunle Olusegun marked a personal milestone by scoring his inaugural competitive goal for the Super Eagles, signaling his growing importance within the squad.
7. Moses Simon‘s Assist Tally Climbs to Three
Reliable winger Moses Simon contributed two assists in the recent matches, bringing his total to three assists in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, further highlighting his creative impact.
8. Terem Moffi Returns to the National Team in 2025
Terem Moffi made his first appearance for Nigeria this year, returning to the squad after last playing in the 2-1 loss to Benin Republic, where he featured for 51 minutes.
While obstacles remain as Nigeria approaches the playoff rounds, the spirited displays against Lesotho and Benin have underscored the Super Eagles’ resilience and their ability to fight tenaciously until the final whistle.