Benin will be seeking a second consecutive victory against Nigeria when the two sides face off in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, September 7. Kick-off is scheduled for 18:00 CAT.
Nigeria, who finished as runners-up in the AFCON earlier this year after a heartbreaking loss to hosts Ivory Coast in the final, enter the match in a state of turmoil.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) had announced a deal with German coach Bruno Labbadia to take over as head coach, only for the agreement to fall through due to disputes over tax payments.
This has left the Super Eagles in need of strong leadership following a disappointing start to their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign back in June.
Nigeria’s World Cup qualifiers saw them struggle, drawing 1-1 at home against South Africa and suffering a 2-1 defeat away to Benin – the same team they are set to face in their opening AFCON qualifier this weekend.
With uncertainty surrounding the team, NFF technical director Augustine Eguavoen has been appointed as interim coach for the upcoming match against Benin and their subsequent fixture against Rwanda.
Speaking about his temporary role, Eguavoen expressed his commitment to the cause.
“I will do it for the love of the country and the game,” he said. “Football gave me name and fame, and the country gave me the opportunity, so it’s difficult to say no at this point because of the circumstances we find ourselves in.”
Meanwhile, Benin will be looking to continue their positive momentum. After failing to qualify for the last two editions of AFCON, the Cheetahs have rejuvenated their campaign under the guidance of veteran coach Gernot Rohr, who previously managed the Super Eagles.
Benin have secured back-to-back wins in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, including a notable 2-1 victory over Nigeria in June.
Rohr, now leading Benin, is confident his side can replicate their recent success against the Super Eagles.
“I am used to the environment, the players and all,” said Rohr. “I am also positive that we will leave Nigeria with a result.”
Historically, Nigeria has dominated the encounters between the two nations, winning 13 of their 17 meetings dating back to 1977.
Benin, by contrast, has secured only two victories over their West African rivals.
However, their recent triumph in Abidjan, where goals from Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie sealed a 2-1 win, shows that Benin are more than capable of posing a serious challenge to the Super Eagles.
The pressure will be on Nigeria to regain their form and secure a positive result as they embark on their AFCON qualifying campaign.
However, Benin, buoyed by their recent victories and under the experienced guidance of Rohr, will be determined to upset their more illustrious opponents once again.
This encounter promises to be a fiercely contested battle as both teams look to kickstart their journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on a high note.
