The National Sports Commission (NSC) has lauded the Super Eagles for their impressive 4-0 victory over Benin Republic, which has kept Nigeria’s World Cup hopes alive and qualified them for the playoffs.
NSC commended the Super Eagles for their emphatic 4–0 victory over Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, describing it as a morale-boosting performance that has kept Nigeria’s qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup alive.
The crucial win ensured the Super Eagles’ progression to the playoffs and lifted Nigeria to second place in Group C with 17 points, moving them above Benin Republic on the log.
Benefiting from home advantage, the Super Eagles mounted early pressure that the visitors could not withstand. Victor Osimhen, supported by Samuel Chukwueze, opened the scoring in the third minute, setting the tone for a dominant display. Osimhen added a second goal before half-time, and later completed a hat-trick to seal his hero status of the day. Frank Onyeka wrapped up the rout with a fourth goal in the closing minutes of the match.
The NSC described the victory as a testament to the progressive drive and clear intent of its leadership, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s vision to fully develop Nigerian sports.
Chairman, National Sports Commission, Mallam Shehu Dikko, expressed delight over the result, saying the Super Eagles victory rekindles our hope and pride as a people and as a nation. We prepared adequately from the onset and were confident Nigeria would make us proud after the match.
“With this landmark win, we are further encouraged to intensify our efforts in developing all sports—especially grassroots programmes—which remain at the heart of our strategy to identify, nurture, and mentor young talents to stardom,” he stated.
Similarly, the Director General, NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, attributed the resounding victory to teamwork, patriotism, and sheer love for the nation.
“I commend the team’s resilience and determination to change the narrative, keep Nigeria’s hope alive, and fly our flag high with pride.
“We are proud of this excellent achievement because it underscores our ongoing efforts to revolutionize sports development in Nigeria. We will not relent until we grow the next generation through school and youth sports, discovering and nurturing fresh talents who can emulate our champions across the globe,” he said.
The NSC also acknowledged the unwavering commitment of Coach Eric Chelle and Captain William Troost-Ekong, whose confidence and leadership provided additional motivation for the players.
Indeed, the mood among Nigerian sports enthusiasts at home and abroad remains upbeat, with renewed optimism that the Super Eagles will sustain their momentum as they face Cameroon or Burkina Faso in the upcoming playoff fixtures.
