Benin Republic vs Nigeria: Super Eagles Eye Early AFCON Qualification

The Super Eagles are gearing up for an important clash against Benin Republic in a Group D qualifier for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). With 10 points accumulated so far, Nigeria leads the group and requires just one more point to secure their place in the tournament, scheduled for late 2025.

Earlier this year, Nigeria triumphed 3-0 in the first leg of this fixture, and they will be hoping for a similar result when they face Benin at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, which serves as the Benin team’s home ground.

The Benin Republic, sitting four points behind Nigeria, will be eager to replicate their surprising 2-1 victory over Nigeria in a 2026 World Cup qualifier in June. A win here would greatly enhance their chances of qualifying for AFCON 2025.

Coach Austine Eguavoen’s Super Eagles have been impressive in their qualification campaign so far, winning three out of four matches and conceding just once. The team enters the match with a full squad, except for center-back Semi Ajayi, who is sidelined due to injury. The good news is that star striker Victor Osimhen has returned to the squad after missing Nigeria’s previous match against Libya.

In the pre-match press conference, Eguavoen emphasized his team’s commitment to securing all three points. “We approach every game with the goal to win,” he said. “While Benin is a tough opponent, we will give our all to achieve our objective.”

If Nigeria manages to secure at least a draw, their upcoming match against Rwanda in Uyo will become a formality, as they would have already booked their place in the 2025 AFCON. The match against Benin Republic is scheduled for 8:00 PM Nigeria time on Thursday, November 14, 2024.

Stay tuned for more updates as the Super Eagles continue their journey toward qualification.