Nigeria Vs Benin: Match Preview, Head-Head, Team News, Prediction

Nigeria Vs Benin: Match Preview, Head-Head, Team News, Prediction

By BSN Sports 

  The stage is set for a decisive clash as Nigeria host Benin at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium on Tuesday, October 14, in their final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

With both nations still in contention to top Group C and secure a coveted ticket to North America, the stakes could not be higher.

Benin currently lead the group and need only a draw to potentially secure qualification particularly if South Africa fail to win their simultaneous clash against Rwanda. Nigeria, on the other hand, must win and hope South Africa drop points to stand a chance of booking their place at the 2026 tournament.

Match Details

Fixture: Nigeria vs Benin

Venue: Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo, Nigeria

Date: Tuesday, October 14, 2025

Kick-off: 17:00 local time

Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CAF Group C)

Head-to-Head: Nigeria Dominant, but Benin Hold Recent Advantage

Historically, the Super Eagles have enjoyed a strong record against Benin, winning 13 of their 17 meetings. Benin have managed just one victory a memorable 2-1 win over Nigeria in March 2024 during this same qualification campaign. That match, played in Abidjan due to stadium issues in Benin, saw the Squirrels come from behind to upset the favourites.

Since then, the sides met twice in Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, with Nigeria earning a 3-0 win and a 1-1 draw. However, Benin’s form under head coach Gernot Rohr, Nigeria’s former manager, has improved considerably. They have won three of their last five matches in the qualifiers, positioning themselves as legitimate contenders for a World Cup berth.

Nigeria are unbeaten in their last five games (two wins, three draws), though their recent performances have drawn criticism for a lack of cutting edge in attack.

Team News

Nigeria: The Super Eagles will be without Ademola Lookman, suspended after receiving multiple yellow cards. Injury concerns have also ruled out Ola Aina, Cyriel Dessers, and Raphael Onyedika.

Despite these absences, head coach Eric Chelle still has a strong squad at his disposal, with Victor Osimhen, Akor Adam, and Wilfred Ndidi expected to play pivotal roles.

Benin: Gernot Rohr will also be without several key players. Yohan Roche and Sessi D'Almeida are suspended, while Abdoul Moumini, Junior Olaitan, and Rodolfo Aloko are nursing injuries.

Rohr, who managed Nigeria from 2016 to 2021, brings a unique dynamic to the encounter. His familiarity with the Super Eagles’ core group may provide tactical advantages for the underdogs.

Tactical Outlook & Prediction

Nigeria enter the match as favourites based on squad depth and historical record. However, they have often struggled to break down compact, defensively disciplined sides exactly the kind of approach Benin are likely to adopt.

Benin, aware that a draw might be enough, are expected to sit deep and rely on quick transitions. Nigeria must show urgency and precision in the final third if they are to avoid frustration in front of their home crowd.

Rohr’s insight into Nigeria’s players adds a fascinating subplot, and his tactical discipline could frustrate his former team.

Prediction: Nigeria 2-1 Benin. A close contest, but the Super Eagles’ superior quality may ultimately shine through.