Nigeria v Benin live: Osimhen gets Super Eagles off to perfect start in crunch World Cup qualifier | OneFootball

(AP)

Nigeria take on Benin in a crunch World Cup 2026 qualifier with South Africa also in contention to advance for next summer’s showpiece tournament as the CAF stage of qualifying reaches a thrilling finale.

The Super Eagles have endured a torrid campaign so far, leaving Eric Chelle’s side in third behind second-place Bafana Bafana, though there is still hope for Nigeria to qualify behind the group winners in second via the best-placed runners-up in the play-offs.

A tense victory over Lesotho last time out, thanks to goals from William Troost-Ekong and Akor Adams, ensured they remain in the hunt, but an expectant crowd in Uyo brings more pressure.

“We must win and nothing more,” Chelle said before acknowledging the mental challenge. “We want to go to the World Cup. I am very happy, very excited. Sometimes, we may be a little nervous.”

Nigeria 1-0 Benin

28 mins: Bad news for both Nigeria and Benin - South Africa are now 2-0 up against Rwanda.

That puts them in a very strong position at the top of Group C.

Nigeria’s task stays the same: they need to win by as many goals as possible, whether that’s to earn automatic qualification or put them in a strong position to be one of the four best second-place teams.

Will Castle14 October 2025 17:29

Nigeria 1-0 Benin

19 mins: Benin’s deliveries from the right-hand side haven’t been there so far. They work it well but as it comes back to Tosin, his cross once again balloons over everyone and out for a free-kick.

South Africa are still 1-0 up against Rwanda, FYI.

Will Castle14 October 2025 17:19

Nigeria 0-0 Benin

2 mins: Nigeria tick it around the back before trying to create something in the opposition half, with an over-the-top ball searching for Osimhen.

There’s just a bit too much on it and the ball runs through to the goalkeeper.

Will Castle14 October 2025 17:02