Nigeria Eagles Seek Final Victory Against Cheetahs for 2025 AFCON Spot

Nigeria’s Super Eagles will face off against the Benin Republic’s Cheetahs today in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, as both teams compete to secure their place in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco. This marks the third encounter between these West African teams in just six months, and expectations are high as Nigeria aims to cement its top spot in Group D with another win. With a 3-0 victory over Benin Republic in the first leg held in Uyo, Nigeria, the Super Eagles are on a strong footing going into this crucial game at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny, Benin’s adopted home ground.

While a draw would be sufficient for Nigeria to qualify, the Eagles are looking to maintain their momentum and avoid a repeat of their June defeat, when they lost 2-1 to Benin during the World Cup qualifiers. This match holds high stakes, as Benin is fighting to stay in contention for the second automatic qualification spot.

A Strong Record to Defend

The Super Eagles have been dominant in their group, sitting at the top of Group D with 10 points, while the Cheetahs trail by four points in second place. Benin’s chances of advancing are dependent on a win, making this match a decisive opportunity to secure a place in Morocco. Under the guidance of coach Austin Eguavoen, Nigeria has won three out of four matches, remarkably without conceding a goal. Eguavoen’s squad is almost at full strength, setting the stage for a formidable performance.

However, Benin is desperate to avoid any slip-ups. Their recent loss in Kigali has put pressure on the team to perform, as even Rwanda could overtake them if they gain points in their final two games. Libya, while further behind, could also surprise Benin if certain results align in their favor. As a result, Nigeria expects a fierce contest in today’s game, which will be officiated by Senegalese referee Issa Sy.

Key Players Return for Eagles

Captain William Troost-Ekong, the 2023 AFCON MVP, has returned to the squad after missing the June defeat. Determined to redeem Nigeria’s previous loss, Troost-Ekong believes the Eagles can achieve more than just a draw. “The stadium is familiar territory,” he said. “We’ve had good results here before, but we’re focused on avenging our last loss to Benin and securing the win.”

Benin’s coach, former Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, has acknowledged the challenge his side faces. “Repeating the feat of June is going to be complicated because Nigeria is now at full strength,” Rohr stated. Missing key players Cedric and Olivier, Benin’s squad will be tested by Nigeria’s revitalized lineup. Despite these setbacks, Rohr remains confident that the Cheetahs can put up a strong fight in Abidjan.

Nigeria’s Probable Starting XI and Tactical Setup

Coach Eguavoen is likely to maintain the lineup that triumphed over Libya last month. The backline could feature Captain Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey at center-back, with Olaoluwa Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi as wing-backs. In midfield, Eguavoen has a wealth of options, including Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and Frank Onyeka, with creative support from Fisayo Dele-Bashiru and Alhassan Yusuf Abdullahi.

Upfront, Nigeria’s attacking threat remains formidable, with Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Kelechi Iheanacho all available. The inclusion of dynamic forwards like Victor Boniface and Samuel Chukwueze gives Nigeria multiple offensive options. With these players in form, the Super Eagles aim to dominate possession and control the game from start to finish. Kick-off is set for 8:00 pm Nigerian time, and fans anticipate an intense and thrilling encounter as the Eagles seek to soar into AFCON 2025.