Benin, nicknamed the Cheetahs, secured a win against Rwanda in their last match, while Nigeria, known as the Super Eagles, have yet to clinch three points in the qualifiers. This has turned Group C into one of the most competitive, with all six teams still in contention for qualification after three rounds. Gernot Rohr, now coaching Benin, could add to Nigeria’s woes when they face the three-time African champions on Monday.
Though Monday's match is in Abidjan, Rohr hopes his team will build on their recent 1-0 victory over Rwanda, which moved them to third place, just ahead of Nigeria. Benin's recent win has put them level with Rwanda and only one point behind Lesotho, the group leaders, who defeated Zimbabwe in the last round. This leaves only three points separating the top and bottom teams in Group C.
Four nations, including Benin, have each won one match, highlighting the intense competition in the group. With an extra day of rest compared to Nigeria, the Cheetahs aim to end the Super Eagles' unbeaten start to the qualifiers.
For Nigeria, it hasn’t been smooth sailing. They’ve drawn 1-1 in matches against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. Friday’s match against South Africa was especially frustrating for Nigerian fans, who felt they were denied a clear penalty after Fisayo Dele-Bashiru’s equalizer.
Dele-Bashiru, playing for Hatayspor, scored early in the second half to level the game after Themba Zwane’s first-half goal for South Africa, ensuring Nigeria avoided a home defeat in Uyo.
Despite their rocky start, Nigeria can still turn things around by beating Benin in Abidjan. A win could propel them to the top of the group, depending on the outcomes of other matches, where South Africa faces Zimbabwe and Lesotho plays Rwanda.
Having missed out on the last World Cup, Nigeria is under pressure to qualify this time and avoid consecutive absences since their debut in 1994.
INJURIES & SUSPENSION
Dokou Dodo, who scored the winning goal against Rwanda, is expected to keep his spot in the lineup for Monday’s match. Benin’s primary offensive threat remains Steve Mounie, who is likely to lead the attack, supported by Junior Olaitan and Jodel Dossou on the wings.Gernot Rohr’s Benin squad didn’t pick up any injuries in their last game, so they are likely to field a similar team against Nigeria.
Nigeria, on the other hand, had some setbacks. Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, who was impressive before being fouled in the penalty area, had to be substituted. Additionally, Semi Ajayi was withdrawn due to a knock, as confirmed by coach Finidi George.
George faced criticism for not playing Bundesliga champion Victor Boniface in the match against South Africa. However, Terem Moffi might start on Monday, potentially replacing Boniface.
Ademola Lookman, who had a frustrating game against South Africa with his shots either off-target or blocked, could still be a key player against Benin. Meanwhile, Alex Iwobi, one of Nigeria’s standout performers in the last match, is expected to maintain his midfield position alongside Wilfred Ndidi.
POSSIBLE LINE-UPS
Benin possible starting lineup:Dandjinou; Moumini, Hountondji, Tijani, Kiki; Dodo, D'Almeida, Imourane; Dossou, Mounie, Olaitan
Nigeria possible starting lineup:
Nwabali; Tanimu, Awaziem, Bassey, Osayi-Samuel; Iheanacho, Yusuf, Ndidi, Iwobi; Moffi, Lookman
EXPERT PREDICTION
Benin 1-2 Nigeria
After three straight draws, Nigeria's chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup are dwindling. Coach Finidi George will be looking for his team to deliver a decisive performance at Stade Felix-Houphouet-Boigny on Monday, eager to grab all three points after a frustrating start in Group C.
The Super Eagles clearly have the talent to outperform their opponents, but they must execute their game plan flawlessly to secure their first win in the fourth round of qualifying.
