FIFA 2026 World Cup CAF Qualifier: Nigeria vs Benin

 Staff Reporter | PNN

On Tuesday, Nigeria will face Benin in a FIFA 2026 World Cup CAF qualifier. The match will take place at Nigeria’s Godswill Akpabio International Stadium at 6:00 PM local time (16:00 GMT).

Nigeria will aim to secure a win over Benin to achieve direct qualification for the World Cup, as they are currently three points behind Benin in Group C and also lag by two in goal difference. This is an extremely crucial match for Nigeria, where a victory could increase their chances of advancing to the next round.

On the other hand, the match is relatively easier for Benin: a draw or win will ensure their first-ever direct qualification to the World Cup. Even a loss could still see Benin advance directly if South Africa draws or loses their final match.

Group C standings for Nigeria and Benin:

• Benin: 17 points (+5 goal difference)
  
  

• South Africa: 15 points (+3 goal difference)
  
  

• Nigeria: 14 points (+3 goal difference)
  
  

In their last matches, Nigeria defeated Lesotho 2-1, while Benin beat Rwanda 1-0.

A significant setback for Nigeria is the absence of Ademola Lookman, who is suspended after receiving a second yellow card against Lesotho. However, forward Victor Osimhen, who returned in the Lesotho match, will play, and coach Eric Telly is hopeful that his team will successfully overcome this challenge.

Benin’s coach Garnot Rohr will field his full squad. Rohr consistently uses a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Steve Mounie leading the attack. Benin’s goalkeeper will be Marcel Danzino, with Tamimu Auro, Olivier Verdon, Yohann Roche, and Mohamed Tijani in defense.

As this is the final group match, the outcome will determine which team qualifies directly for the World Cup and which team goes to the inter-confederation playoff. Fans are eagerly anticipating the match, especially as it could mark a historic moment for Benin, who may secure their first-ever spot in the World Cup.