UPDATE: NIGERIA 4-0 BENIN REPUBLIC

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Olaitan goes into the referee’s book for a late challenge as frustrations continue to mount for Benin. Meanwhile, Nigeria make another change — Moffi comes on to replace Iwobi as the Super Eagles push for a fourth goal to seal a statement victory.

Remarkably, despite trailing 3-0, Benin could still snatch second place — but they’ll need to score twice to edge Nigeria on the head-to-head record.

According to the latest permutations, a four-goal victory would guarantee Nigeria a play-off spot, regardless of other results.

Victor Osimhen’s night comes to an end to thunderous applause from the Uyo crowd. The hat-trick hero makes way for Arokodare after a sensational performance leading the line.

Osimhen almost bags his fourth of the evening, but Dandjinou produces another fine save — diving across to tip the striker’s powerful header away for a corner.

Brilliant centre-forward work from Victor Osimhen as he nods the ball perfectly into Iwobi’s path, but the midfielder’s strike is quickly blocked by the Benin defence. Moments later, Osimhen is pulled back by C. Hountondji — the defender already on a yellow, and lucky to escape a second.

Zaidu’s night ends prematurely as he’s stretchered off and replaced by Onyemaechi. Meanwhile, Onyeka comes on for Adams as Nigeria look to see this one out comfortably.

South Africa have doubled their lead against Rwanda — a result that keeps Nigeria’s automatic qualification hopes hanging by a thread.

Olaitan tries his luck from a long-range free-kick, but his ambitious effort sails harmlessly over the bar.

Benin nearly gift Nigeria another chance as Simon closes down a back pass, but goalkeeper Dandjinou remains composed, calmly finding a teammate who skips past Osimhen.

Instant impact from substitute Dossou, who whips in a dangerous cross, but Mounié can’t quite stretch enough to make contact. Benin still searching for a lifeline.

Benin push forward and test Nigeria’s backline, but Zaidu reads the situation perfectly, stepping in to clear the danger and preserve the Super Eagles’ comfortable lead.

Zaidu makes a good run down the left and finds space, but his final cross lets him down — sailing harmlessly away from danger.

Despite Osimhen’s hat-trick heroics, Nigeria’s fate isn’t fully in their hands — they still need a helping hand from Rwanda to secure automatic qualification.

The visitors make their first substitution of the night.
On: Olaitan
Off: A. Hountondji