Abuja: South Africa will return to the FIFA World Cup for the first time since hosting the tournament in 2010 after narrowly claiming top spot in their qualifying group ahead of Nigeria and Benin. Benin, chasing a maiden World Cup appearance, started the last round of matches at the summit of Group C, two points ahead of South Africa and three in front of Nigeria. However, a decisive 4-0 defeat to Nigeria saw them slip to third place, below Nigeria on goal difference.

According to BBC, Benin's defeat came at a crucial moment as they were penalized earlier in the tournament with a 3-0 forfeit for fielding an ineligible player against Lesotho. This penalty temporarily placed South Africa second behind Benin, but a 3-0 victory over Zimbabwe in Durban, combined with Benin's loss, allowed South Africa to regain the top position in Group C.

Nigeria, despite the defeat, has secured a place in the African play-offs with a chance to reach the World Cup through additional matches. Victor Osimhen was pivotal for Nigeria, scoring a hat-trick against Benin, which ensured their play-off position. His performance has been crucial for Nigeria, especially after struggles with managerial changes and his own injury absences.

Eric Chelle, appointed as Nigeria's manager in January, has faced challenges but managed to keep the team's World Cup hopes alive. Nigeria's path to qualification will involve a rigorous play-off schedule, with the potential to compete in FIFA's inter-continental qualifier next March, which will decide the last two spots for the expanded 48-team World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

Nigeria's journey through the qualifiers has been marked by ups and downs, with Osimhen's return proving vital. His scoring prowess was on full display against Benin, securing Nigeria's play-off hopes. The Super Eagles will need to keep him fit to navigate the play-offs successfully and aim for a place in the World Cup finals next year.