The Super Eagles head into their final qualification match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Benin Republic on Tuesday, with eyes firmly set on victory to book their spot in the tournament.
The Three-time African champions were given a major boost last month following South Africa’s point deduction for a disciplinary issue. They defeated Lesotho 2-1 last Friday to set up a tense finish in group C, where all the first three teams could still secure qualification.
Nigeria must defeat the Cheetahs and hope South Africa fail to beat Rwanda to clinch the available automatic slot from the group and seal a return to the biggest stage after missing the previous edition in Qatar.
Here are five players to watch ahead of the crucial encounter.
Samuel Chukwueze
Samuel Chukwueze is set to benefit from the absence of Ademola Lookman, who is suspended for the must-win qualifier against Benin Republic. Atalanta winger Lookman was booked in the second half of the win against Lesotho, ruling him out of this clash due to accumulation of yellow cards.
Chukwueze enjoyed an impressive cameo against Lesotho and has often shown glimpses of his quality for Nigeria. His pace and dribbling ability will cause problems for the Benin Republic backline.
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Victor Osimhen
Super Eagles second all-time goalscorer Victor Osimhen was one of the standout players for the country against Lesotho, showing impressive work-rate and team play.
Despite not getting on the scoresheet, the Galatasaray forward proved too much to handle for the opponent’s defence and laid on the assist for Akor Adams to score Nigeria’s second of the game.
The 26-year-old will hope to move past the heartbreak of 2022 and deliver a masterclass that would send Nigeria to the 2026 World Cup.
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William Troost-Ekong
Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong shrugged off a disappointing display against South Africa in September, with an assured defensive showing against Lesotho last week.
The 32-year-old scored the opener for the Super Eagles from the spot and was also very solid in defense, making several interceptions and clearances. Troost-Ekong could also offer an extra dimension with his threat from set-pieces.
Akor Adams
Akor Adams delivered an impressive display on his debut against Lesotho, scoring Nigeria’s winner, and will be hopeful of a place in the team against Benin Republic.
The Sevilla striker showed great composure and clinical finishing to score the important second goal for the Super Eagles last weekend, and could be helpful in unlocking the Cheetah’s defence this time around.
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Christantus Uche
Nigerian youngster Christantus Uche did not feature in the win over Lesotho, but could be called upon for a huge role against Benin Republic.
Uche combines strength and impressive dribbling skills, which will make him a big threat for the Super Eagles against the Cheetahs.
