The Super Eagles will qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) if they avoid defeat against Benin Republic in Abidjan on Thursday.
With this in mind, Coach Augustine Eguavoen’s men are expected to go all out from the first whistle, determined to avoid any last-minute drama.
Nigeria currently sit top of Group A with 10 points from four matches, including three wins and a draw. Their last outing saw them comfortably defeat Libya in Uyo. A win against Benin Republic, who trail by four points in second place, will guarantee Nigeria’s group leadership heading into the final round of qualifiers.
For the Cheetahs, the stakes are equally high. Their 1-0 loss to Rwanda in Kigali last month left them vulnerable, with only six points. A defeat in Abidjan could open the door for both Rwanda (five points) and even bottom-placed Libya (one point) to overtake them, depending on results in the final round of games.
The battle at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny promises to be intense, as both teams fight to secure their spots at the AFCON in Morocco next year.
Nigeria will be without centre-back Semi Ajayi, who is sidelined by injury. Captain William Troost-Ekong is expected to partner Calvin Bassey in the heart of the defence, flanked by Ola Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi at full-back.
In midfield, the likes of Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka are available, with Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Alhassan Yusuf also in contention. Upfront, Nigeria boasts an array of attacking options, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Kelechi Iheanacho.
A win on Thursday would make Nigeria’s final group game against Rwanda in Uyo on Monday a mere formality, with the Super Eagles already assured of their place in Morocco. However, Eguavoen’s side will still be keen to finish the campaign on a high note in front of their home fans.
