Victor Osimhen was in scintillating form on Tuesday night, netting a sensational hat-trick as Nigeria thrashed Benin Republic 4-0 at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, to secure qualification for the World Cup play-off round.

The Super Eagles, needing a convincing win to stay in contention, delivered a commanding performance from start to finish, with Osimhen leading the charge in trademark fashion.

Coach Eric Chelle made four changes to the side that edged Lesotho 2-1 last Friday, resting captain William Troost-Ekong for Semi Ajayi, while Zaidu Sanusi returned at left-back. In midfield, Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi retained their places alongside Moses Simon, while Samuel Chukwueze came in for the suspended Ademola Lookman.

Osimhen opened the scoring just three minutes into the encounter, slotting home after a clever through ball from Chukwueze. The Napoli striker doubled Nigeria’s advantage with a powerful header from another Chukwueze cross midway through the first half.

The Super Eagles remained dominant after the break, and Osimhen completed his hat-trick with another fine header six minutes into the second half, sending the Uyo crowd into raptures.

Substitute Frank Onyeka added gloss to the scoreline with a crisp volley late in the game to seal a 4-0 triumph.

Despite the emphatic win, Nigeria finished second in the group on 17 points, level with Benin Republic but ahead on goal difference. South Africa topped the group after a 3-0 win to claim the automatic World Cup slot.

With this result, the Super Eagles advance to the play-off stage of the qualifiers scheduled for November.