The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers are reaching a fever pitch across Africa, and Group C is set for a dramatic climax tomorrow.
Nigeria's Super Eagles will face Benin's Cheetahs in a crucial match that could determine their World Cup fate.
This blog delves into the upcoming encounter – kick-off time, team news, predicted lineups, and what's at stake.
Match Details:
Who: Nigeria vs Benin
What: CAF qualifiers for FIFA 2026 World Cup
Where: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Nigeria
When: Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at 6 PM (16:00 GMT/5:00 PM Nigeria Time)
Current Group Standings:
This is the final group game, and the stakes couldn't be higher. Benin currently leads Group C with 17 points, followed by South Africa with 15 points, and Nigeria in third with 14 points. Only the group winner earns direct qualification to the World Cup, while the best second-place finishers have a shot at a playoff spot.
Team News: Nigeria
The Super Eagles enter this match with a win against Lesotho in their previous outing, but the situation remains complex.
Key players like Wilfred Ndidi, Victor Osimhen, and Samuel Chukwueze are expected to play pivotal roles. However, the Super Eagles will be without Ola Aina due to injury, and Atalanta winger Ademola Lookman is suspended after receiving a booking in the last match.
Nigeria's coach, Eric Chelle, is likely to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation. Star forward Victor Osimhen returns to the squad after injury and will be hoping to guide Nigeria to a crucial win.
Team News: Benin
The Cheetahs, led by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr, are in a strong position after their narrow 1-0 victory against Rwanda.
Benin will have a full squad available for selection. Coach Rohr is also expected to utilize a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Steve Mounié leading the attack.
What's at Stake:
For Nigeria, the equation is clear: they must win by at least two goals to have a chance at topping the group and securing direct qualification.
They also need South Africa to fail to beat Rwanda in their corresponding fixture. Even with a win, if South Africa draw, Nigeria could qualify as the best second-placed team if their goal difference is superior. For Benin, a win or a draw guarantees them direct qualification to the World Cup for the first time. Even a loss could be enough for Benin to qualify if South Africa fail to win against Rwanda.
The atmosphere at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium is expected to be electric, as both teams fight for their World Cup dreams.
Football fans across Africa will be eagerly watching to see who prevails in this crucial Group C decider. Don't miss this epic clash between two of Africa's footballing powers!