The stage is set at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where the Super Eagles of Nigeria will lock horns with the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in a decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying clash that could define the fate of both nations.

Kick-off is at 5 p.m. Nigerian time, and fans can follow the drama live on DStv (SuperSport), StarTimes, Sporty TV, FIFA+, and beIN Sports.

For Nigeria, this is more than a football match — it’s a battle for redemption. The Super Eagles, who missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, are desperate to avoid consecutive absences from the global showpiece for the first time since their debut in 1994.

Currently third in Group C with 14 points from nine games, Nigeria trail South Africa by one point and Benin Republic by three. The equation is simple yet steep: Nigeria must defeat Benin and hope South Africa fail to beat Rwanda in Mbombela to stand a chance of automatic qualification.

For Benin, the dream is within reach. Sitting proudly atop the table with 17 points, a victory in Uyo would secure their first-ever FIFA World Cup ticket — a historic moment for Gernot Rohr, the former Nigeria coach who now leads the Cheetahs. Even a draw could be enough if South Africa slip.

Rohr’s return to Nigeria adds a twist of fate — the German tactician guiding Benin to glory at the expense of the very team he once managed between 2016 and 2021.

Super Eagles Out for Redemption

The Super Eagles arrive in Uyo buoyed by a 2-1 win over Lesotho, with William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams finding the net. However, their destiny no longer rests solely in their hands.

History, though, offers encouragement. In 19 previous meetings, Nigeria have dominated with 14 wins, 3 draws, and just 2 defeats. Yet, their most recent encounter — a 2-1 loss in Cotonou — served as a painful reminder that Benin are no longer underdogs.

Key Absentees and Probable Line-ups

Nigeria will be without Ademola Lookman (suspended) and defenders Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel (injured). In their absence, Victor Osimhen is expected to lead the line, supported by Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze on the flanks. Alex Iwobi will orchestrate play from midfield, while Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey marshal the defence in front of Stanley Nwabali.

Benin will miss Yohan Roche and Sessi D’Almeida through suspension, but Rohr is likely to stick with the side that overcame Rwanda, with Steve Mounie spearheading the attack and Marcel Dandjinou in goal.

As the sun sets over Uyo, two nations stand on the edge of destiny — Nigeria fighting for pride and redemption, and Benin dreaming of history.