Victor Osimhen was the star of the show, netting a clinical hat-trick, while Frank Onyeka added a late fourth to seal the rout. It was a performance filled with intensity, confidence, and attacking flair hallmarks that had been missing in earlier matches.

However, despite the emphatic win, Nigeria’s qualification hopes took a hit elsewhere. South Africa’s 3–0 victory over Rwanda in Mbombela meant the Super Eagles finished second in Group C just one point behind the group winners narrowly missing out on automatic qualification.


Victor Osimhen reminded everyone why he’s one of the most feared forwards in world football. His hat-trick took his international tally to 29 goals in 44 appearances just eight shy of the legendary Rashidi Yekini’s record of 37.

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Despite only featuring in four of Nigeria’s ten qualifiers due to injury, Osimhen still finished as the team’s top scorer with six goals. His absence in key matches, particularly both legs against South Africa, proved decisive in the tight group standings.

Nigeria’s path to the World Cup is now more complicated. With automatic qualification slipping through their fingers, the Super Eagles must now navigate the perilous playoff route. In a campaign defined by fine margins, the dropped points and missed chances earlier in the group stage loom large.

Source: Premium Times