Former Nigeria international Emmanuel Okoduwa in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa has expressed delight after the Super Eagles secured a spot in the playoffs, saying he believes the team will continue to improve in the coming months.
Needing a convincing win against Benin in their final Group C match to stand a chance of finishing first or second, the Super Eagles delivered a dominant performance, defeating the Cheetahs 4-0 in Uyo on Tuesday night.
Victor Osimhen opened the scoring in the third minute, before adding another in the 37th to hand Nigeria a commanding lead at half-time. The Galatasaray forward completed his hat-trick six minutes after the restart, while Frank Onyeka sealed the victory with a fourth goal in added time.
The Warlord in Uyo ⚔️
Victor Osimhen led from the front with a ruthless hat-trick as the Super Eagles soared past Benin 🦅#SoarSuperEagles | #FIFAWCQ | #Naija4theWin pic.twitter.com/PMp7QRp92U
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 14, 2025
The result lifted Nigeria to 17 points and secured a place in the playoffs, much to Okoduwa’s satisfaction.
“I am very happy we were able to get the win and a place in the playoffs. It was a tough campaign because we did not start well, but I’m pleased we ended on a good note,” he said in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa.
“I would have loved to see us qualify automatically, but reaching the playoffs gives us another chance to push hard for a place at the World Cup. It won’t be easy, but I believe the team can do it. This win should boost their confidence heading into the next stage.” the former Shakhtar Donetsk added.
After finishing second in Group C, Nigeria will join three other runners-up from the qualifiers in the African playoffs scheduled for November, where they will battle for one ticket.
The winner will advance to a six-team intercontinental playoff in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico, in March next year.
There, the African representative will compete against Bolivia, New Caledonia, two Central American teams, and one from Asia, with two spots available for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
