Super Eagles line-up vs Benin Republic revealed with Ndidi as captain, Osimhen and Adams in attack. Nigeria must win to keep World Cup hopes alive
Super Eagles line-up vs Benin Republic has been officially confirmed ahead of Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo.
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The Nigeria Football Federation and the team’s official X (formerly Twitter) account revealed four changes from the previous match against Lesotho, with Wilfred Ndidi captaining the side.
In a vital fixture that could determine Nigeria’s fate in the qualification race, Victor Osimhen partners Akor Adams in the attack, while Moses Simon earns his 85th international cap.
Starting XI for Nigeria vs Benin Republic:
GK: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Benjamin Fredrick, Zaidu Sanusi, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi (C), Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon
Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Akor Adams
The substitutes’ bench includes Adebayo, Ekong, Arokodare, Onyeka, Onyemaechi, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Uche, Moffi, and Olusegun.
This Group C clash is a must-win for the Super Eagles, who are currently third in the standings with 14 points. They trail group leaders Benin Republic (17 points) and South Africa (15 points).
Failure to win could see Nigeria miss out on back-to-back World Cup appearances for the first time since their debut in USA 1994.
The team must also hope that South Africa drop points against Rwanda in Mbombela to improve their chances.
The Super Eagles will be without Ademola Lookman (suspended) and defenders Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel due to injury.
Despite the absences, the starting XI reflects a blend of experience and attacking intent.
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Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 p.m. (WAT) in Uyo.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
