The Super Eagles face the Benin Republic today in Abidjan, aiming to secure a spot at AFCON 2025. After a 3-0 win in the first leg, Nigeria needs a draw or victory to qualify, while the Benin Republic must win to stay in the race.
[dropcap]N[/dropcap]igeria’s Super Eagles are set to clash with the Benin Republic’s Cheetahs for the third time in six months as they aim to secure an automatic qualification spot for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
The match takes place today at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, which serves as Benin’s temporary home ground.
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After a dominant 3-0 win in Uyo in September, Nigeria needs at least a draw to confirm qualification, but they are keen on a decisive victory to avenge their narrow 2-1 loss at this same venue in June during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Nigeria leads Group D with 10 points, while Benin sits second with six points. The Cheetahs must win to remain in the running, as they face competition from Rwanda (five points) and even Libya, who could still challenge if results align in their favour.
Austin Eguavoen’s side boasts a near-perfect record in the qualifiers, with three wins and no goals conceded in four matches.
Defender and team captain William Troost-Ekong, who missed the June defeat, emphasised that the Eagles are focused on both qualifying and avenging the previous loss.
Troost-Ekong said, “The stadium is familiar territory. We’ve had good results here before, but we’re focused on avenging our last loss to Benin and securing the win.”
Coach Eguavoen has a full squad to select from, including star players like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Moses Simon, while the midfield options are equally strong, featuring Wilfred Ndidi and Alex Iwobi.
Benin, under former Nigeria coach Genort Rohr, faces the Eagles without two key defenders, Cedric and Olivier. Acknowledging Nigeria’s current form, Rohr said, “Repeating the feat of June is going to be complicated because Nigeria is now at full strength, but we believe in ourselves.”
The match is set to start at 8:00 pm Nigerian time, with fans anticipating an intense encounter as both teams aim to secure their place in Morocco 2025.
