Nigeria vs Benin Qualifier: Kick-off Time, Team News, Updates

Monday, Oct 13, 2025

Nigeria vs Benin World Cup Qualifier 2025: See kickoff time, lineups, team news, and predictions as both teams battle for a World Cup spot in Uyo.
All you need to know as Group C leaders Benin face a crucial final test against Nigeria for a direct ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America.

Match Overview

The Super Eagles of Nigeria will host Benin in a decisive CAF World Cup qualifying clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Nigeria.
Kick-off is set for 6:00 PM local time (16:00 GMT) on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

Fans can follow all the build-up and live commentary through Al Jazeera Sport’s coverage starting at 13:00 GMT.

Group C Standings Before Kick-off

Heading into the final round of matches, Benin sit at the top of Group C with 17 points, followed closely by South Africa (15 points) and Nigeria (14 points).
A win for Nigeria could completely flip the standings, while Benin need just a draw to make history.

Current standings:

Benin – 17 pts (+5 GD)
South Africa – 15 pts (+3 GD)
Nigeria – 14 pts (+3 GD)
Rwanda – 11 pts (-1 GD)
Lesotho – 9 pts (-4 GD)
Zimbabwe – 5 pts (-6 GD)

Scenario:

Benin win/draw: Qualify directly for their first-ever World Cup.
Nigeria win: Could qualify as group winners or best runners-up for the intercontinental playoff.

Nigeria’s Journey and Challenges

Nigeria’s qualification campaign has been a rollercoaster. Despite moments of brilliance, inconsistency has kept them chasing the leaders.
Their recent 2-1 win over Lesotho reignited hope, but they must now deliver under pressure against an in-form Benin.

The Super Eagles faced an unexpected scare when their flight from South Africa had to make an emergency landing in Angola due to a cracked windshield. Thankfully, all players and staff were unharmed.

Why South Africa Lost Vital Points

In a surprising twist, FIFA docked South Africa three points last month for fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in a 2-0 win over Lesotho.
That decision awarded Lesotho a 3-0 victory and opened the door for Benin and Nigeria to challenge for the top spot.

Head-to-Head History: Nigeria vs Benin

Nigeria and Benin have met 12 times since 2004.

Nigeria wins: 9
Benin wins: 2
Draws: 1

In their last encounter on June 10, 2024, Benin stunned Nigeria 2-1 in Abidjan, with goals from Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie overturning an early lead by Raphael Onyedika.

🇳🇬 Nigeria Team Update

Nigeria will be without Ademola Lookman, the 2024 African Ballon d’Or winner, who is suspended after receiving two yellow cards in consecutive matches.
Defender Ola Aina remains sidelined with injury.

However, star striker Victor Osimhen is back in action and ready to lead the attack. The Galatasaray forward admitted Nigeria are underdogs but vowed that the team will fight to the end.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Nwabali (GK); Troost-Ekong, Fredrick, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Simon; Arokodare; Osimhen.

🇧🇯 Benin Team Update

Benin head coach Gernot Rohr has a fully fit squad available.
He’s expected to stick with his 4-2-3-1 formation, featuring Steve Mounie up front, supported by Jodel Dossou and Andreas Hountondji.

The defense—Ouorou, Verdon, Tijani, and Roche—remains unchanged after their 1-0 win over Rwanda.

Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Dandjinou (GK); Ouorou, Verdon, Tijani, Roche; D’Almeida, Imourane; Dossou, Dokou, Hountondji; Mounie.

Coaches’ Thoughts Ahead of the Clash

Eric Chele (Nigeria head coach):

“Losing Lookman is tough, but our squad has the depth and spirit to rise to the challenge.”

Gernot Rohr (Benin head coach):

“We respect Nigeria, but destiny is in our hands. We know it won’t be easy in Uyo, but we’re ready to make history.”

What’s at Stake

Benin: One point away from a historic first-ever World Cup qualification.
Nigeria: Must win to stay alive in the race—either through direct qualification or the intercontinental playoff route.

Quick Facts About CAF World Cup Qualification

9 group winners qualify directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
4 best runners-up advance to an African playoff, with one winner going to the intercontinental playoff.
Already qualified: Algeria, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Tunisia.
4 more spots to be decided on Tuesday, October 14, 2025.

Prediction and Analysis

This fixture is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling finales in African World Cup qualifying.
Benin enter with confidence and momentum, while Nigeria’s experience and attacking firepower could prove decisive.

Predicted Score: Nigeria 2 – 1 Benin
Expect a tense encounter with Osimhen likely to play a crucial role.

Final Word

With everything on the line, Nigeria vs Benin is more than just a football match—it’s a battle for pride, redemption, and a ticket to the biggest stage in world football.
Fans can expect drama, emotion, and high stakes when the whistle blows in Uyo.

Nigeria vs Benin Qualifier