On Tuesday, the Nigerian Super Eagles will face off against Benin’s Cheetahs at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
This encounter carries significant weight for both nations as it marks the concluding fixture in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers for Group C. The outcome could ultimately determine which team secures a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Currently leading the group, Benin can advance with a draw, assuming Rwanda manages to hold South Africa in their simultaneous Group C clash. Conversely, Nigeria can clinch qualification if they overcome Benin and South Africa falters against Rwanda.
Fixture Information
- Match: Nigeria vs Benin
- Location: Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, Nigeria
- Date & Time: Tuesday, October 14 at 17:00 local time
- Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup CAF Qualifiers, Group C
Historical Context: Nigeria vs Benin
While Nigeria stands as a powerhouse in African football, Benin has traditionally been considered an underdog. This disparity is reflected in their head-to-head record: out of 17 encounters, Nigeria has triumphed 13 times, drawn three, and suffered just one defeat.
That sole loss occurred earlier in this qualifying campaign during the reverse fixture in March 2024. Due to stadium inadequacies at home, Benin hosted Nigeria in Abidjan. Despite lacking home support, the Cheetahs rallied from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over the Super Eagles.
Since then, Nigeria has met Benin twice in Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, delivering a commanding 3-0 win in the first leg and settling for a 1-1 draw in the return match.
Current Form
The Super Eagles remain unbeaten in their last five matches, recording two wins and three draws.
Benin’s recent form includes three wins and two losses in their last five outings, with all victories coming during the ongoing qualification rounds.
Under the guidance of coach Gernot Rohr, appointed two years ago, Benin has transformed into a more competitive side, showing marked improvement.
Squad Updates
The Nigerian team will be nearly at full strength, though Ademola Lookman is sidelined due to yellow card accumulation. Additionally, Ola Aina, Cyriel Dessers, and Raphael Onyedika are absent because of injuries.
Benin’s coach Gernot Rohr will be without key players Yohan Roche and Sessi D’Almeida, both suspended for yellow card accumulation. Injuries have also ruled out Abdoul Moumini, Junior Olaitan, and Rodolfo Aloko.
Match Outlook and Prediction
Despite Nigeria’s recent struggles to find clinical edge, they remain overwhelming favorites to prevail over Benin, largely due to their superior talent and depth.
Benin is expected to adopt a defensive posture, aiming to exploit counter-attacks-a strategy that has historically troubled Nigeria.
Moreover, Rohr’s intimate knowledge of Nigerian football, having managed the Super Eagles for five years before his dismissal three years ago, gives him unique insight into their vulnerabilities.
While the match promises to be challenging for Nigeria, their superior quality should ultimately shine through. A narrow 2-1 victory for the Super Eagles appears to be a plausible outcome.
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