Confident Eagles set for final showdown in 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign reaches its dramatic conclusion, Nigeria’s Super Eagles are gearing up for a decisive clash against Group C leaders Benin Republic on Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

Head Coach Eric Sekou Chelle has declared that the Super Eagles will give everything they have to secure a crucial victory and keep their World Cup hopes alive.

Nigeria, currently third in the group with 14 points, must defeat Benin Republic by at least two goals and hope South Africa, who sit second with 15 points, fail to beat Rwanda in Nelspruit.

Benin Republic, led by former Nigeria coach Gernot Rohr, top the group with 17 points and need just a draw to clinch their first ever FIFA World Cup ticket.

The Cheetahs have impressed throughout the campaign, but Nigeria remains the only team among the top three contenders to have lost just one match.

The Super Eagles are chasing their seventh World Cup appearance, having reached the Round of 16 in three of their previous six outings.

Veterans William Troost-Ekong and Alex Iwobi, both part of the 2018 squad, are expected to feature prominently, with Troost-Ekong set to earn his 83rd cap and Iwobi his 89th.

Star striker Victor Osimhen, Africa Player of the Year 2023, leads a talented group of players including Calvin Bassey, Frank Onyeka, Raphael Onyedika, Simon Moses, Samuel Chukwueze, and Ademola Lookman, all eager to make their World Cup debut.

Both teams will be without key players due to suspensions and injuries. Benin Republic will miss defender Yohan Roche and midfielder Sessi d’Almeida, while Nigeria will be without Lookman, Olaoluwa Aina, and Bright Osayi-Samuel.

With over 220 million Nigerians rallying behind the Super Eagles and thousands expected in the stands, the atmosphere in Uyo promises to be electric.

A win for Nigeria, coupled with a favorable result from South Africa’s fixture, could seal their place at the 23rd FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico next summer.