The Super Eagles of Nigeria will face the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier tonight at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, with both sides vying for qualification to next year’s global fiesta in North America.
Benin is at the top of Group C with 17 points, two points ahead of South Africa and three points clear of Nigeria, after last Friday’s 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali. They will win their first-ever World Cup qualifying spot with a victory tonight.
But a two-goal victory for the Super Eagles would put them on the same points as Benin and pass them on goal difference. Their fortunes will also rest on the result of South Africa’s away game against Rwanda if the Bafana Bafana lose, Nigeria would be top and in pole position for a direct World Cup ticket.
The Super Eagles injected life into their qualification dreams with a 2-1 triumph over Lesotho in Polokwane at the weekend, but coach Eric Chelle admitted that the squad still have much to achieve. Attending a pre-match press conference in Uyo, Chelle attributed that the players eagerly want to win, adding that he had worked hard to plant the necessary mentality to defeat Benin’s threat.
Captain William Troost-Ekong expressed optimism, saying the team had overcome travel fatigue and were prepared for the decisive match. “It’s like an uphill task; we’re swimming against the tide, but we’ll give our utmost to secure victory,” he said, urging fans to stand by the team until the final whistle.
Ex-Super Eagles’ coach and ex-captain Austin Eguavoen also believed, going on to forecast a win for Nigeria. “I don’t know the scoreline, but I’m very sure we will win,” he insisted.
Benin, led by ex-Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, have been the group’s surprise package. A draw tonight could be sufficient for them to qualify, if only South Africa is defeated by Rwanda.
Nigeria, seeking to feature at a seventh World Cup, has not missed two consecutive editions since making its debut in 1994. Among the 21 players at training camp, only Captain Troost-Ekong, Wilfred Ndidi, and Alex Iwobi have featured at the tournament before leaving behind stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Samuel Chukwueze eager to make their debut on the greatest stage in football.
Both sides will miss key players: Benin’s Yohan Roche and Sessi d’Almeida will be suspended, and Nigeria will miss Ademola Lookman, Ola Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel due to injuries.
A two-goal victory by the Super Eagles coupled with a slip by South Africa would see Nigeria qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
