Today, the Super Eagles of Nigeria face off against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup CAF Qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
With World Cup qualification hanging in the balance, this game is a must-win for Nigeria, who currently trail Benin by three points in Group C.
Benin leads the group with 17 points, while Nigeria sits third with 14 points and a +3 goal difference. As three-time African champions, Nigeria need a win to keep their dream alive—either by finishing top of the group or securing a spot in the intercontinental playoff set for November.
For Benin, the goal is straightforward: a draw or a win will secure their spot in the World Cup for the first time ever. Even if they lose, there’s still a chance they can qualify—provided South Africa doesn’t win their final match.
Here’s how the Group C standings look right now: Benin Republic leads with 17 points and a +5 goal difference, followed by South Africa with 15 points (+3 GD), Nigeria with 14 points (+3 GD), Rwanda with 11 points (-1 GD), Lesotho at 9 points (-4 GD), and Zimbabwe trailing with 5 points (-6 GD).
Nigeria’s chances of qualifying got a boost when FIFA docked South Africa three points for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in an earlier match against Lesotho. As a result, Lesotho was awarded a 3–0 win, which shook up the group standings and opened the door wider for Nigeria.
Back in June 2024, the Cheetahs pulled off a shock 2–1 win over the Super Eagles in Abidjan. Nigeria’s Raphael Onyedika got things started with an early goal, but Benin fought back with goals from Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounié to complete a memorable comeback. That loss still lingers in the minds of the Nigerian team and adds extra fire to today’s match.
Nigeria will be without their key attacker, Ademola Lookman, who is suspended after receiving his second yellow card in the 2–0 win over Lesotho. Defender Ola Aina is also sidelined due to injury.
On the bright side, Victor Osimhen, who made his return from injury in the last game, is expected to lead the Super Eagles’ attack today. Benin’s coach, Gernot Rohr—who previously managed Nigeria—has his full squad fit and is likely to stick with his trusted 4-2-3-1 formation, with Steve Mounié as the main striker.
Nigeria has made it to six World Cups but missed out on the 2022 tournament in Qatar. A win in Uyo would keep their hopes alive for a return to football’s biggest stage. For Benin, this match is a chance to make history by qualifying for their very first FIFA World Cup—a milestone that would signal a new chapter under coach Gernot Rohr.
When: Tuesday, October 14, 2025
Kick-off: 5:00 p.m. Nigerian time
Where: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo
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