As Nigeria prepares for their all-important World Cup qualifier against Benin, the Super Eagles have received a strong vote of confidence from former Nigeria international, Garba Lawal, in his exclusive interview with Footy-Africa.
The Eagles go into Tuesday’s decisive clash in a difficult position, as they are third in Group C with 14 points, trailing Benin and South Africa. A win over the Cheetahs in Uyo, coupled with favourable results elsewhere, could still see Nigeria qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Here’s our history with the Cheetahs of #Benin 🐆
On Tuesday, we meet again! ⚔️#SoarSuperEagles #FIFAWCQ #Naija4theWin pic.twitter.com/0gRI8wGl36
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 12, 2025
Despite the odds, Lawal remains confident that the team can rise to the occasion and secure the much-needed victory.
“I’m an optimist, and I believe Nigeria will defeat Benin on Tuesday. The odds are against us at the moment, but the boys know what is at stake,” he exclusively told Footy-Africa. “They have to finish the qualifiers on a good note,” said the midfielder, who represented Nigeria at the 1998 World Cup in France.
“Like everyone else, I’m not happy with how things have gone, but now is the time to rally behind the boys and cheer them to victory. Strange things happen in football, we have seen it before and I believe something will work in our favour. But first, we must take care of our own game and hope the other results go our way. Some of the boys know this could be their last chance to play at a World Cup, and they’ll give everything to make it happen,” he added.
Lawal also addressed the team’s late arrival in Uyo after an emergency forced their plane to return to Luanda following the win over Lesotho.
“Thank God the pilot was smart and quick to turn back instead of risking the flight. I was scared when I heard it, but I’m happy they arrived safely,” he said. “This could serve as extra motivation. I see it as a positive sign, one that could push the team to victory over Benin. I believe they’ll do it.”
Touchdown in Uyo! ✈️
Focus shifts to Benin, we go for the win!#Naija4theWin #SoarSuperEagles pic.twitter.com/7JElMcFhmV
— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) October 12, 2025
All Group C matches will kick off simultaneously, with Nigeria hosting Benin in Uyo while South Africa take on Rwanda in Nelspruit.
