Super Eagles Roar Ahead Of Benin Clash! – Chukwueze, Troost-Ekong Vow To Deliver Victory For Nigeria

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are charged with confidence ahead of their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Benin Republic, scheduled for 5 p.m. today at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Head coach Eric Chelle has assured fans that his team will give everything to secure a vital win, describing the encounter as a “must-win” clash for Nigeria’s World Cup ambitions.

“We have to win this game tomorrow. My focus is fully on that. We want to go to the World Cup, and we’ll do everything possible to get there,” Chelle said during Monday’s pre-match press conference. “I’m happy and excited, even if there’s a bit of nervousness — it’s normal before such an important game.”

Team captain William Troost-Ekong echoed the coach’s optimism, insisting that the players are mentally and physically ready to deliver victory for the nation.

“We have players who want to make names for themselves and those who want their legacy to stand in history. Everyone is prepared and ready to give their best to win,” Troost-Ekong affirmed. “Tomorrow may not be entirely in our hands, but we’ll fight to get the result.”

Despite the team’s travel setback — when their flight from Luanda, Angola, was forced to return after a cracked windscreen midair — Chelle praised his players for maintaining focus and motivation.

Nigeria’s qualification hopes hang in the balance as they prepare to face Group C leaders Benin Republic in what could determine their World Cup fate. The Super Eagles currently sit third in the group with 14 points from nine matches, trailing Benin by three points and South Africa by one.

For Nigeria to secure automatic qualification, they must defeat Benin and hope South Africa fail to beat Rwanda in Mbombela. Should Bafana Bafana win, the Eagles would still need a high-margin victory to edge into the play-off on goal difference.

Having missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Super Eagles are determined to avoid consecutive absences from football’s biggest stage — something that has never happened since their debut appearance in 1994.