October 15, 2025
Despite a commanding 4–0 victory over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have fallen short of securing automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Victor Osimhen starred with a spectacular hat-trick, while midfielder Frank Onyeka contributed the fourth goal to complete the decisive win. However, Nigeria’s efforts were not enough as South Africa sealed the top spot in the group with a 3–0 win over Rwanda, finishing with 18 points compared to Nigeria’s 17.
The Super Eagles still remain in contention for qualification as one of the four best runners-up across the Confederation of African Football (CAF) qualifiers following Matchday 10.
FIFA’s world rankings, scheduled for release on October 23, 2025, will determine the playoff seedings, with matchups set as 1st vs 4th and 2nd vs 3rd among the qualified teams.
Nigeria will now prepare for the playoff round, hoping to secure a spot at the global tournament.