Despite a convincing 4-0 win over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic, the
Super Eagles of Nigeria failed to secure automatic qualification for the
2026 World Cup.
Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick and Frank Onyeka’s goal secured the vital
victory for Nigeria, but it was not enough to top the group, as South Africa
also defeated Rwanda 3-0 to take that spot.
However, the victory has virtually secured the Eagles a spot in the play-offs
as one of the top second-placed teams.
With 17 points, Nigeria stands a strong chance of qualifying as one of the
best runners-up, which would give the West Africans a second
opportunity to reach the World Cup through the play-offs.
Only the best of the second-placed teams will advance, four out of nine
will battle it out after Matchday 10 in the CAF qualifiers.
The seeding for the draw will be based on the FIFA Rankings set to be
released on October 23, 2025.
Accordingly, the top-ranked team will be paired against the fourth-ranked,
while the second and third-ranked teams will meet in the other semi-final.
Morocco has been officially confirmed by the CAF as the host nation for
the 2026 FIFA World Cup playoffs.
