The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the Squirrels of Benin in a pivotal 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Thursday, November 14. Held at Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, this match is a significant opportunity for Nigeria to secure its place in the tournament. Here’s everything you need to know:
Nigeria’s Qualification Target
Nigeria, currently atop Group D with 10 points, needs only a single point to qualify for AFCON 2025. However, a win would confirm their status as group leaders, following a dominant 3-0 victory over Benin in the first leg. For Benin, sitting with six points, a win is essential to bolster their qualification hopes.
Head-to-Head Record
Nigeria has historically excelled against Benin, winning seven out of their last ten encounters. The Super Eagles’ most recent victory against Benin saw a powerful performance by Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen. However, Benin’s recent victory in June in a World Cup qualifier shows their potential to challenge Nigeria.
Team News
Benin
Benin’s lineup remains uncertain, with forward Matteo Ahlinvi potentially missing out due to an injury. Key players like Steve Mounié, who scored in Benin’s last win over Nigeria, will be vital in their attempt to upset the Super Eagles.
Nigeria
Returning to full strength, Nigeria welcomes back top scorer Victor Osimhen, alongside Ademola Lookman, who has been in excellent form, and Real Sociedad’s Sadiq Umar, recovered from a lengthy injury. Defensively, Semi Ajayi will be absent, with Gabriel Osho and Victor Collins stepping in to reinforce the backline.
Quotes from the Camps
Nigeria’s Coach, Augustine Eguavoen
“We’ll fight for every ball, fight for every point, and that’s what we want to do tomorrow. In respect to that, Benin is not a pushover, but we will work hard to make sure we achieve our objective.”
Benin’s Coach, Gernot Rohr
“Repeating the feat of June is going to be complicated, because Nigeria is now at full strength, but we believe in ourselves.”
Match Details
• Date: Thursday, November 14
• Kickoff Time: 20:00 WAT
• Venue: Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny, Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire
Prediction
With a solid defense and an attacking lineup bolstered by Osimhen’s return, Nigeria is expected to secure a win, with a 3-0 scoreline likely on the cards.
