Tinubu praises Super Eagles for victory, Nigeria to partake in W’Cup playoffs
File: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
Nigeria to partake in W’Cup playoffs.
The victory put an end to a difficult qualifying campaign for Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has charged the Super Eagles to secure qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup through the play-offs following their emphatic 4-0 victory over the Benin Republic on Tuesday.
The President congratulated the team for keeping the nation’s hope alive with their dominant performance at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, which secured their place in the African play-offs.
Tinubu praised the Super Eagles for the hunger, passion, and determination displayed on the field, noting that the superlative performance has reignited Nigerians’ football pride.
“While the job is not yet complete, I join millions of Nigerian football fans in wishing our team every success in the play-offs,” the President said in a statement.
“The mood across the country reflects a shared belief that Nigeria deserves a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Canada, Mexico, and the United States will host.
“As your President, I assure you and the coaching crew of the Federal Government’s support as you strive to secure your place at the tournament. Nigerians everywhere believe in you, and I do too.
“We look forward to seeing you fly our flag proudly on the world stage.”
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick and Frank Onyeka’s stoppage-time strike ensured Nigeria finished as one of the best four second-placed teams in the African qualifiers with 15 points and a +7 goal difference.
The three-time African champions will now face one of the other qualified second-placed teams in a two-legged play-off tie for a chance to get a place at the expanded 48-team tournament.
The victory ended a difficult qualifying campaign for Nigeria, who had faced the prospect of missing back-to-back World Cups for the first time since their debut in 1994.
It was also the first time the country scored four or more goals in a match since September 2023.
