In the fourth qualifying round, the Super Eagles of Nigeria suffered a 2-1 loss to Benin Republic on Monday, which was a blow to their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, as reported by Punch NG. In the 29th minute, Raphael Onyedika scored a goal to the right corner to give Nigeria the lead. But Benin was fast to react, with Jodel Dossou to square the score after a defensive blunder.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Just before halftime, Benin took the lead with Steve Mounie finding the net from a corner, putting Nigeria on the back foot.
Despite making substitutions in the second half, including the likes of Victor Boniface, Paul Onuachu, and Ibrahim Olawoyin, Nigeria could not find an equalizer.
Head coach Finidi George opted to start with Terem Moffi and Ademola Lookman leading the attack, while Victor Boniface began on the bench.
The starting lineup included Stanley Nwabali in goal; Bassey, Tanimu, Ajayi, and Osayi-Samuel in defense; and Ndidi, Onyeka, and Iwobi in midfield. Chukwueze, Lookman, and Moffi spearheaded the offensive effort.
The bench featured substitutes such as Iheanacho, Boniface, Onuachu, Abdullahi, Dele-Bashiru, Onyeka, Awaziem, Olawoyin, Igboke, Ismaila, Okoye (GK), and Ojo (GK).
The defeat sees Nigeria slipping to fifth place in their six-team qualifying group, with Benin Republic moving to the top. Nigeria has drawn three and lost one of their four matches so far.CONTINUE FULL READING>>>>>
Below is the Current Table;
