Osimhen hat-trick sends Nigeria to playoffs as South Africa reach World Cup

South Africa book their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Nigeria are pushed into CAF playoffs despite beating Benin.

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South Africa became the latest African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after beating Rwanda 3-0 to top its qualifying group, with Nigeria forced to settle for second spot – and the playoffs – despite a Victor Osimhen hat-trick against Benin.

South Africa were docked three points by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) for fielding an ineligible player in earlier games in the qualifying stages, but recovered to claim top spot from Benin, who were beaten 4-0 in Nigeria to eventually finish third as the group was settled on Tuesday.

Osimhen hat-trick sends Nigeria to playoffs as South Africa reach World Cup

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