Nigeria Misses Automatic World Cup Ticket Despite 4–0 Thrashing Of Benin
Despite a commanding 4–0 victory over the Benin Republic, Nigeria’s Super Eagles have heartbreakingly missed out on automatic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The emphatic win, though a statement of intent and resilience, was not enough to secure a direct ticket, as other group results left Nigeria finishing with 17 points, just short of the mark needed for automatic progression.
However, all hope is not lost. With their strong points tally and superior goal difference, the Super Eagles remain in contention for qualification as one of the best runners-up.
This route would see them battle through the play-offs for a second chance at making it to football’s biggest stage.
Fans have expressed mixed emotions, pride in the team’s spirited performance yet frustration at how close Nigeria came to sealing qualification outright.
The focus now shifts to the play-offs, where the Eagles must soar higher to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
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