Nigeria’s Super Eagles were at their ruthless best on Tuesday evening, storming to a 4–0 victory over the Squirrels of Benin Republic in a dominant display that thrilled home fans and reaffirmed their title credentials.
Leading the charge was Victor Osimhen, who delivered a sensational hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added the final goal to cap off a near-perfect performance from the three-time African champions.
It took only three minutes for Nigeria to assert control. A quick exchange of passes between Samuel Chukwueze and Osimhen ended with the striker smashing home from close range to open the scoring. The relentless forward was back in the thick of the action midway through the first half, leaping highest to head in another precise cross from Chukwueze, doubling Nigeria’s advantage and sending the stadium into raptures.
The Super Eagles maintained their grip on the game, moving the ball with confidence and composure. Benin tried to fight back but found no way through a well-organized Nigerian defence marshalled by Calvin Bassey and Bright Osayi-Samuel, with goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali alert to every threat.
Osimhen completed his treble six minutes after the restart, coolly slotting past the goalkeeper after a swift attacking move. His performance drew a standing ovation as he reaffirmed his reputation as one of Africa’s most lethal finishers.
Substitutes Olakunle Olusegun and Terem Moffi injected pace and energy into the Nigerian attack, ensuring Benin remained pinned in their half. As the game wound down, Frank Onyeka put the icing on the cake, converting from close range in the final minute after an intelligent run and cross from Moses Simon.
With the result, Nigeria strengthened their position in the qualifying campaign, extending their unbeaten run and sending a clear message to their rivals.
