World Cup fate to be decided today, as Super Eagles battle The Cheetahs
Nigeria will play host to the Republic of Benin in their final matchday of the FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The Super Eagles of Nigeria is seeking to steal direct qualification for next year’s World Cup tournament from the Group C leaders.
The Cheetahs of Benin already leads them by three points with two goal difference, making the fixture a must-win for the Nigerians with at least two-goal-lead, to have any chance of qualification.
A good win could also guarantee the Super Eagles the runners-up position to potentially compete in November’s inter-confederation playoff for a possible 10th African World Cup spot, should the Bafana Bafana of South Africa wreck their hopes today with a victory over Rwanda.
Benin on the other hand needs a win or draw against the three-time African champions and then make history and qualify for the World Cup finals for the first time ever.
Benin and Nigeria both won their matchday 9 fixtures on Friday, beating Rwanda (1-0) and Lesotho (2-1) respectively.
A victory for Benin in Uyo would guarantee them a maiden World Cup appearance, while anything less could allow one of their two group rivals — Nigeria or South Africa — take their place.
Matchday 10 fixtures would hold on Tuesday October 14, and will be played at the same time, 16:00 GMT (5 p.m. Nigerian time).
Group C CAF World Cup Qualifiers Table
Benin: 17 points (+5 GD)
South Africa: 15 points (+3 GD)
Nigeria: 14 points (+3 GD)
Rwanda: 11 points (-1 GD)
Lesotho: 9 points (-4 GD)
Zimbabwe: 5 points (-6 GD)
