2026 World Cup qualifiers: Nigeria to face Benin without Adeola Lookman | OneFootball

2026 World Cup qualifiers: Nigeria to face Benin without Adeola Lookman

Due to suspension, Adeola Lookman, the 2024 African Ballon d'Or winner, will not be available on Tuesday, October 14, against Benin in the decisive Group C finale of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

This is a significant blow for coach Eric Seko Chile. The Super Eagles' manager will have to do without the Atalanta Bergamo winger. During the ninth round of qualifiers, a 2-0 win against Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa, Adeola Lookman was booked in the 64th minute.

This yellow card, coupled with the one he received on September 9 against South Africa (1-1), has automatically triggered a one-match suspension for the 27-year-old Nigerian star.

On October 14, 2025, Nigeria (14 points, third place) will host Benin (17 points, Group C leaders) at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. It's a high-stakes showdown, as both teams are still mathematically in the hunt for direct qualification.