Nigeria’s Super Eagles stand on the brink of securing their place in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as they prepare for a decisive Group D qualifier against Benin. The Super Eagles, needing just one point from the encounter to clinch their AFCON spot, approach the game with cautious optimism as they seek to end any suspense before the final round of qualifiers.
The match, set to kick off at 19:00 GMT at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Abidjan, carries added tension, not only for Nigeria but for Benin as well.
The Cheetahs are in fierce competition with Rwanda for the second qualifying position in Group D, and a win against Nigeria would keep their own qualification hopes alive.
Meanwhile, the Super Eagles will be looking to confirm their qualification and avoid any last-minute pressure in their final fixture.
Nigeria enters the game with confidence after being awarded a 3-0 walkover victory in their previous match against Libya, who were unable to field a team due to travel issues.
However, this decision remains under appeal, adding a layer of uncertainty to Nigeria’s qualification status.
Should the appeal overturn the walkover, Nigeria’s road to Morocco may yet come down to the final two matchdays, making this clash with Benin all the more crucial.
For Benin, the stakes are equally high. Currently neck-and-neck with Rwanda, the Cheetahs have managed to keep their AFCON dreams alive and will be pushing for victory against Nigeria in order to increase their chances of a second-place finish.
Should Benin pull off an upset and Rwanda fail to win their match against Libya, the group standings will remain in play until the final day, when the outcomes of both matches could determine who moves on to Morocco next year.
Nigeria’s head coach and players have remained focused on their immediate task, intent on securing the lone point needed to seal their qualification.
The Super Eagles are undefeated in Group D and have shown a balanced combination of offensive strength and defensive discipline, making them a formidable opponent.
Benin, however, are likely to put up a spirited fight on home soil, aware that a win could transform their qualification chances and keep them in the running for a place in the prestigious tournament.
Fans can watch the match live on DSTV’s SuperSport and Afro Sport, as well as several local and online streaming platforms, ensuring that supporters across the continent can tune into this crucial encounter.
As Nigeria and Benin take to the field, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they seek to confirm their spot in Morocco, while Benin look to pull off a victory that would extend their AFCON aspirations.
With high stakes for both sides, the match promises to deliver a thrilling contest for fans and a definitive moment in the journey to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
