The stage is set for one of the most decisive matches in Nigeria’s World Cup qualifying history as the Super Eagles prepare to face the Cheetahs of Benin at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo today.
For both teams, this is more than just another qualifier; it is a winner-takes-all clash that could determine who grabs one of Africa’s coveted tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North and Central America.
Heading into this final Group C encounter, Benin Republic sit at the top of the table and know that even a draw could seal their qualification, provided Rwanda can frustrate South Africa in the group’s other fixture.
For the Super Eagles of Nigeria, the equation is simple: they must win. Anything short of victory will leave their fate hanging by a thread, depending on results elsewhere.
With so much on the line, Tuesday’s match promises drama, tension, and perhaps redemption especially for a Super Eagles side that has endured a rollercoaster qualification campaign.
According to history, this fixture has always be in Nigeria’s favour. The Super Eagles have dominated the head-to-head record, winning 13 of their 17 meetings, with only one loss, a shock 2-1 defeat to Benin in March 2024.
The match which was played in Abidjan, due to Benin’s lack of a FIFA-approved home stadium, the Cheetahs overturned a Nigerian lead to claim a famous win. It was a moment that reignited belief in Beninese football and gave Gernot Rohr’s men renewed confidence.
Since then, Nigeria and Benin have crossed paths twice in AFCON qualifiers — with the Super Eagles winning one and drawing the other. But with both teams evolving since then, Tuesday’s game feels like a completely different battle.
Nigeria’s form has been steady, if not spectacular. The Super Eagles remain unbeaten in their last five matches, with two wins and three draws. Despite showing flashes of brilliance, inconsistency in front of goal has been a recurring concern.
Benin, on the other hand, have enjoyed a strong run under Gernot Rohr, winning three of theirlast five games, all in World Cup qualifiers. The German coach, who famously led Nigeria from 2016 to 2021, has transformed the Cheetahs into an organized and disciplined side capable of upsetting Africa’s traditional powerhouses.
Nigeria will be without Ademola Lookman who is suspended after accumulating yellow cards. Injuries have also ruled out Ola Aina, Cyriel Dessers, and Raphael Onyedika.
For Benin, Rohr faces selection headaches of his own. Players like Yohan Roche and Sessi D’Almeida are suspended, while Abdoul Moumini, Junior Olaitan, and Rodolfo Aloko are sidelined through injuries.
These absences could prove decisive as both teams seek balance between defence and attack in a high-pressure contest.
The encounter has a fascinating subplot Gernot Rohr versus his former team. He coached Nigeria for five years, Rohr knows many of the Super Eagles’ strengths and weaknesses intimately. He will likely set up Benin to defend deep and hit on the counter, exploiting Nigeria’s tendency to leave spaces behind.
Eric Chelle’s team, however, boast superior individual quality from Victor Osimhen’s relentless energy to Troost-Ekong’s leadership at the back. Nigeria’s challenge will be breaking down a compact Benin side without getting caught on the break.
The Godswill Akpabio Stadium is expected to be packed with passionate fans urging the Super Eagles on to victory. Nigeria’s quality, experience, and home advantage should tilt the balance in their favour but Benin’s form under Rohr make them dangerous opponents.
As the clock ticks toward kickoff, one thing is certain Uyo will witness a night of destiny. For the Super Eagles, it’s not just about qualification; it’s about pride, redemption, and reclaiming their place among Africa’s football elite.
