Nigeria vs Benin — Tactical Preview, Prediction & Starting XI
Date: October 14, 2025 | Venue: Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo | Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
Key Insight: Nigeria faces a must-win encounter against Benin to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Benin, on the other hand, needs just a draw to make history and qualify for their first-ever World Cup appearance.
Match Context
The tension is high in Uyo as Nigeria prepares to face Benin in a crucial World Cup qualifying clash. The Super Eagles, powered by home support, are determined to grab all three points after inconsistent performances earlier in the campaign. Benin Republic, currently leading the group, only needs a single point to book their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup — a dream within touching distance.
Team News & Strategy
Nigeria
- Victor Osimhen is fit and expected to start as the main striker.
- Wilfred Ndidi will anchor the midfield, providing balance between defense and attack.
- Samuel Chukwueze and Moses Simon expected to provide width and pace on the flanks.
- Alex Iwobi’s creativity in midfield will be crucial to breaking down Benin’s compact defense.
Benin Republic
- Steve Mounié will lead the attack, supported by the pacey Jodel Dossou.
- Benin is expected to play a deep, compact 4-4-2, relying on counter-attacks.
- Defenders Olivier Verdon and Mohamed Tijani will be tasked with stopping Osimhen.
Predicted Starting XI
🇳🇬 Nigeria (4-2-3-1 Formation)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Stanley Nwabali |
| RB | Benjamin Fredrick |
| CB | William Troost-Ekong (C) |
| CB | Calvin Bassey |
| LB | Bruno Onyemaechi |
| DM | Wilfred Ndidi |
| CM | Alex Iwobi |
| RW | Samuel Chukwueze |
| LW | Moses Simon |
| AM | Kelechi Iheanacho |
| ST | Victor Osimhen |
🇧🇯 Benin Republic (4-4-1-1 Formation)
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| GK | Marcel Dandjinou |
| RB | Tamimou Ouorou |
| CB | Olivier Verdon |
| CB | Mohamed Tijani |
| LB | Yohan Roche |
| CM | Sessi D'Almeida |
| CM | Imourane Hassane |
| RW | Jodel Dossou |
| LW | Andreas Hountondji |
| CAM | Tosin Aiyegun |
| ST | Steve Mounié |
Tactical Breakdown
Nigeria will aim to dominate possession from the start, using their attacking full-backs and midfield creativity to stretch Benin’s defense. Expect early pressure from the Super Eagles, with Osimhen leading high pressing and aerial duels.
Benin, however, will stay compact, absorbing pressure and waiting for counter-attack opportunities. With Mounié’s hold-up play and Dossou’s pace, they’ll look to exploit any defensive lapses from Nigeria.
Key Battles to Watch
- Victor Osimhen vs Olivier Verdon: A physical contest that could decide the match.
- Wilfred Ndidi vs Sessi D’Almeida: Midfield control will be crucial for both teams.
- Samuel Chukwueze vs Yohan Roche: Nigeria’s winger could be the difference-maker.
Analyst Prediction
Nigeria’s superior attacking quality and home advantage make them favorites, but Benin’s resilience cannot be underestimated.
Predicted Score: Nigeria 2 – 1 Benin
Expected Scenario: Nigeria to dominate possession, create multiple chances through Osimhen and Chukwueze, while Benin aims to counter quickly through Mounié and Dossou. The first goal will likely decide the outcome.