The highly anticipated clash between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Cheetahs of Benin is set to unfold tomorrow evening at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, marking the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers for both teams.
As Group D’s opener, this match promises to be a gripping encounter, with Nigeria eager to settle scores following a disappointing World Cup qualifier result against their West African rivals.
Just under three months ago, Benin stunned Nigeria with a 2-1 victory in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier, held in neighbouring Ivory Coast.
This unexpected defeat not only cast a shadow over the Super Eagles’ World Cup aspirations but also led to a shake-up in their technical team.
The Super Eagles, now under the interim guidance of Austin Eguavoen, are set to face the Cheetahs in what is expected to be a high-stakes showdown.
Eguavoen, who has been at the helm of the Super Eagles on three previous occasions, faces a significant challenge.
His past stints included a group stage exit in the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon, where Nigeria was eliminated by Tunisia in the second round, and a failed attempt to secure Nigeria’s place in the 2022 World Cup.
The current scenario raises questions about whether Eguavoen can turn the tide in this crucial campaign.
Despite being considered the favourites by bookmakers, Nigeria will need to overcome the momentum that Benin brings into this match. The Cheetahs have recorded back-to-back victories in their recent fixtures, showcasing their form and determination.
Benin’s head coach, Gernot Rohr, brings a wealth of experience to the table, having previously managed Nigeria for four years. Rohr’s familiarity with many of the Super Eagles players could prove advantageous as he prepares for this intense encounter.
The Super Eagles, however, will not be fielding the same squad that suffered defeat to Benin in June.
The return of key players such as Victor Osimhen, the reigning African Player of the Year, and William Troost-Ekong, the AFCON 2023 Player of the Tournament, has bolstered Nigeria’s lineup.
Both players had been sidelined by injuries during the World Cup qualifiers but are back in action for this critical AFCON qualifier.
Additionally, Taiwo Awoniyi’s return to the squad after a lengthy absence due to injuries and selection issues adds further strength to the Nigerian side.
However, the Nigerian squad will be missing Fenerbahce’s Bright Osayi-Samuel, who has withdrawn due to an injury.
He has been replaced by Crawley Town’s new signing, Benjamin Tanimu. This adjustment may impact Nigeria’s defensive strategy, but the team’s depth and talent should provide a strong foundation for Eguavoen’s tactics.
Nigerians are hopeful that the Super Eagles will deploy a refreshed approach and strategy against the Cheetahs.
A win in this opening qualifier would not only provide a positive start to the 2025 AFCON campaign but also restore confidence among fans and players alike.
Eguavoen has urged his team to seize the opportunity and secure victory, emphasizing the importance of making a statement in this crucial fixture.
On the other side, former Nigeria head coach Gernot Rohr will be looking to inflict further disappointment on his former team.
Rohr’s objective is to guide Benin to their first AFCON appearance since 2019, and a win against Nigeria would be a significant step towards achieving that goal.
As the two teams prepare to face off, the stakes are high and the anticipation is palpable. Nigeria’s Super Eagles are determined to exact revenge and kick off their 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign with a resounding victory, while Benin’s Cheetahs aim to continue their impressive run and prove their mettle on the continental stage.
