Football fans across Nigeria were left stunned after the Super Eagles recorded a spectacular 4–0 victory over Benin Republic, only to fall short of automatic qualification for the FIFA World Cup.
Despite the dominant performance in Cotonou, the win wasn’t enough to secure a direct ticket, as Nigeria ended the qualifiers with 17 points, just below the automatic qualification threshold.
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However, all is not lost. The Super Eagles remain firmly in contention to qualify as one of the best runners-up, giving them a second chance through the play-offs to book a spot at the world’s biggest football stage.
The emphatic win showcased Nigeria’s attacking firepower, with the team firing on all cylinders and delivering one of their best performances of the campaign. Yet, other group results did not favor the Eagles, dampening the celebration.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) has urged fans to stay optimistic, assuring that the team will continue to fight until qualification is secured. Football analysts have called the result “a bittersweet victory” a night of brilliance overshadowed by missed opportunity.
As the next round approaches, millions of Nigerians will once again rally behind the team, hopeful that the Super Eagles will rise from heartbreak to triumph.