Eric Chelle Reacts After Super Eagles Crush Benin to Keep 2026 World Cup Hopes Alive

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle reflected on a dominant 4–0 victory over Gernot Rohr’s Benin Republic that sent Nigeria into the next phase of 2026 World Cup qualifying — but fell short of automatic qualification.

Chelle praised his players after Victor Osimhen answered his critics with a brilliant hat-trick to put the game beyond doubt, before Frank Onyeka added the fourth goal.

Osimhen was substituted in the 81st minute to a standing ovation at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium and was replaced by fellow striker Tolu Arokodare.

Despite the convincing win, Nigeria finished second in Group C after South Africa beat Rwanda 3–0 in Mbombela, meaning Bafana Bafana claimed the group’s lone automatic spot.

The Super Eagles therefore progress as one of the best runners-up and will take part in the continental playoff stage.

Chelle — visibly pleased at the post-match news conference — lauded his squad’s effort and singled out Osimhen for special praise, calling him the team’s outstanding forward and expressing pride in both the players and the supporters who turned out.

Nigeria’s campaign is far from over: the team could face up to four more matches across continental and intercontinental playoff ties before a place at the World Cup is secured.

The next stage will be a four-team mini-tournament in Morocco next month, with the winner advancing to an intercontinental playoff in March 2026.

Meanwhile, Benin can take heart from a spirited qualifying run that saw them test the region’s stronger sides.