The stage is set for a high-stakes clash as Nigeria prepares to take on the  Benin Republic tomorrow in their final match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers, writes Nigeriasoccernet.com.

With both nations still in contention for a coveted ticket to North America, the encounter promises to be one of the most decisive and emotionally charged fixtures in recent history.

Qualification at Stake

This fixture could determine the fate of Group C. Benin Republic currently sits at the top of the table with 17 points, closely followed by South Africa and Nigeria with 15 and 14 points respectively. A win for Benin would guarantee their first-ever World Cup appearance, a monumental achievement for Gernot Rohr’s side, while Nigeria must win at all costs and hope that results elsewhere, particularly the South Africa vs Rwanda match, swing in their favour.

For the Super Eagles, the equation is simple but daunting: anything short of victory could end their dream of returning to football’s biggest stage. After a turbulent qualifying campaign filled with draws and inconsistent performances, Nigeria have left itself with no room for error.

Nigeria’s Form and Approach

Nigeria’s journey in the qualifiers has been defined by frustration and missed opportunities. Despite their immense attacking potential, the team has struggled to find consistency and killer instinct in front of the goal. Their recent 2–1 win over Lesotho offered a glimmer of hope, but lapses in concentration and defensive vulnerability remain areas of concern.

Coach Eric Chelle is expected to field a more aggressive lineup this time around, focusing on an early attacking push to unsettle the Beninese defence. With Ademola Lookman suspended and Ola Aina still unavailable due to injury, the responsibility will fall heavily on the shoulders of Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, and Alex Iwobi to inspire attack.

In defence, William Troost-Ekong and Calvin Bassey will be tasked with ensuring stability and leadership at the back, something the Super Eagles have sorely missed in tight contests.

Benin’s Rise Under Rohr

For Benin Republic, this is uncharted territory, and they are relishing it. Since Gernot Rohr took charge, the team has evolved into a well-organised, disciplined unit capable of grinding out results against the continent’s elite. Their 1–0 win over Rwanda in their last outing was another testament to their resilience and tactical discipline.

Rohr, who once managed Nigeria, will be eager to make history at the expense of his former employers. His side is expected to rely on compact defending, structured transitions, and sharp counterattacks led by Steve Mounie, Jodel Dossou, and Olivier Verdon. Despite missing key players like Sessi D’Almeida and Yohan Roche through suspension, Benin’s confidence is sky-high heading into this decisive fixture.

Tactical Battle

Tomorrow’s match will be a battle of styles and psychology. Nigeria are expected to dominate possession, pressing high and looking to score early to settle nerves. Benin, on the other hand, will likely play with caution, focusing on quick transitions and exploiting spaces left behind by Nigeria’s attacking full-backs.

Set-pieces could also play a major role. The Super Eagles’ aerial presence gives them an advantage, but Benin have proven to be dangerous when given opportunities from dead-ball situations.

Predicted Line-ups

Nigeria (4-3-3): Nwabali; Fredrick, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Iwobi, Adams; Chukwueze, Simon, Osimhen

Benin Republic (4-2-3-1): Dandjinou; Ouorou, Verdon, Tijani, Imourane; Dossou, Dokou, Hountondji; Mounie

Prediction and Outlook

Nigeria will be driven by desperation, pride, and a deep desire to avoid another painful qualifying failure. Benin, however, entered the match with composure and belief, knowing that even a draw could secure a historic qualification.

If the Super Eagles can harness their attacking power and maintain discipline, they have what it takes to claim victory. But any lapse could see Rohr’s Benin side punish them and rewrite African football history.

Predicted Score: Nigeria 2–0 Benin Republic

Final Word

Tomorrow’s encounter goes beyond qualification; it’s about redemption, identity, and pride. For Nigeria, it’s a chance to reassert its status as a football powerhouse after months of uncertainty. For Benin, it’s an opportunity to achieve the impossible and make history.

Whatever happens, one thing is certain: the Godswill Akpabio Stadium will witness drama, determination, and possibly the defining moment of Africa’s World Cup qualifying campaign.

Oluwayemi Omolagba

Taofeek Otaniyi scored the equaliser to rescue a point for Rivers United against El-Kanemi Warriors in one of the matchday 9 of the 2024/25 Nigeria Premier Football League season at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium on Sunday, Nigeriasoccernet.com report.

Samaila Bello's 30th-minute strike against the run of play put the visitors ahead. However, Taofeek Otaniyi scored from close range three minutes later to draw the host level, having been set up by Okon Aniekeme.

El-Kanemi Warriors forward Gimba Ajiji was sent off for a second bookable offense just before the first-half break.

In the second half, Ndifreke Effiong fired a shot just wide, and Stephen Manyo came close with a power driver from 25 yards out to grab the full points for Rivers United. However, the resilient El-Kanemi held their ground against the league leader despite playing with a man short.

Although still unbeaten, Rivers United dropped points for the first time at home this season. They currently lead the scorer's chat with 21 points after 9 games. El-Kanemi Warriors on the other hand are 6th on the log with 13 points after the same number of games.

Oluwayemi Omolagba

Abia Warriors Football Club of Umuahia assistant coach Igwe Madubuike and club captain, Augustine Njoku are upbeat of them beating Rivers United on Wednesday, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The two sides lock horns in a rescheduled Nigeria Premier Football League fixture at the Umuahia Township Stadium and the Warriors are seeking to take their pound of flesh after losing the first leg 2-1 in Porthacourt.

Abia Warriors assistant coach, Igwe Madubuike, is optimistic the Umuahia lads will emerge victorious at the end of the encounter.

[caption id="attachment_747373" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Rivers United against Akwa United[/caption]

."..we should expect the same result (home win) from the lads. I know we have prepared them, and we have told them what to do, and we expect it to yield positive result."

His optimism was echoed by the team captain, Augustine Njoku, while speaking with the club's media.

"...we will give the fans nothing short of victory come Wednesday...", the former national U-20 wing back said.

The match comes up on Wednesday, 15th May 2024, at the Umuahia Township Stadium. Kickoff time is 4pm.

By Uche Dozie

As the 2023/2024 season of the Nigeria Women Football League NWFL,  premiership comes to an end on Wednesday April 24th, 2024 across the country, Red- hot Edo Queens FC will be hosted to a classic titanic battle to bring the NWFL regular season to a close.

However, Edo Queens who are in a stunning campaign battle for the NWFL prestigious Super 6 ticket, will have to play the game of their lives if the dream of having the Clubs' name registered for the Super 6 is to be actualized, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

As neighbors, both states have  something in common in the area of sports. Since Delta State was  created out of former Bendel State, there have been that rivalry and  supremacy fight over dominance in sports and other areas of human development.

For Wednesday's league game between both teams, there are many things to play for. When they clashed in the first leg of the league at the Ogbemudia Stadium Benin City,  former Edo Queens striker Chioma Esther, scored an incredible last minute goal that gave the Godwin Obaseki girls the three maximum points. To say that this game will be tough is an under statement.

Again in Group B of the abridged league table, and the battle for the Super 6, out of eight teams that are in race fighting for the ticket,  Rivers Angels have successfully secured the Super 6 slot. They sit top on the table with 27 points, Bayelsa Queens is 2nd with 22 points, Edo Queens sit 3rd With 22 points, FC Robo is 4th, with 19, Delta Queens stand 5th, with 16 points, Remo Stars Ladies is 6th with 15 points, Sunshine Queens of Akure  7th with 13 points, while Ekiti Queens of Ado- Ekiti occupies 8th position with 11 points.

Delta Queens as former league champions are not in contention for the Super 6, they will only be playing for pride and equally use it as a farewell gift to their Asaba teeming  fans. They  might also want to  prove tough with the intention of spoiling the party for Edo Queens. But trust the Benin-City based ladies they are equal to the task and fully ready to give the host team a run for their money.

Moreso, a win or draw for Edo Queens in this all important cracker on Wednesday will cement the Super 6 dream for the girls from the Heart beat  State.

No matter the anticipated antics planned by the host team,  Edo Queens players and fans  are confident that the squad that will be paraded against the Asaba Queens have all it takes to progress to the Super 6. and possibly win the premiership title.

So the players, fans, officials and management of both teams, it is a game that will go down  memory lane. But whatever the out come, at the end, a winner must emerge. But all both teams needed is a level playing ground so as to end the regular league season on a scintillating and glamorous  note.

Edo Queens media 

Fenerbache fullback, Bright Osayi-Samuel has joined his peers in camp ahead of the international friendliest against Ghana and Mali, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

While the first training session in Tuesday evening had only sixteen players, Wilfred Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Francis Uzoho, Chidozie Awaziem and Frank Onyeka joined the Super Eagle camp on Wednesday before the scheduled training session by 4:30pm.

https://twitter.com/ngsupereagles/status/1770482083414131010?s=12

Last to arrive Marrakech is the Turkish Super Lig right back.

Full List of players in camp

Kenneth Omeruo, Dessers Cyriel, Nathan Tella, Simon Moses, Nwabali Stanley, Fisayo Bashiru, Basey Calvin, Iwobi Alex, Semi Ajayi, Jamilu Collins, Bruno Onyemaechi, Olorunleke Ojo, Raphael Onyedika, Benjamin Tanimu, Alhassan Yusuf, Sadiq Umar, Ademola Lookman, Wilfred Ndidi, Kelechi Iheanacho, Francis Uzoho, Chidozie Awaziem, Frank Onyeka and Bright Osayi-Samuel

Nigeria will play the Black Stars of Ghana on Friday, March 22 before playing Mali at the same Grade Stade de Marrakech four days later.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Ten invitees have arrived at the Super Eagles camp in Morocco in preparation for the upcoming friendlies against Ghana and Mali, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The early arrivals include Alex Iwobi, Moses Simon, Stanley Nwabali, Jamilu Collins, and Bruno Onyemaechi.

Joining them in camp are Cyriel Dessers, Nathan Tella, Calvin Bassey, Semi Ajayi, and Fisayo Dele-Bashiru.

https://twitter.com/ngsupereagles/status/1770007789970117117?s=12

Additional players are anticipated to join the camp today (Tuesday).

The team's first training session is scheduled for 4:30pm local time under coach Finidi George.

The Super Eagles are set to face Ghana at the Grand de Stade Marrakech on Friday, March 22.

 By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Chris Danjuma, head coach of the Falconets, has expressed unwavering confidence in his team's ability to advance to the final of the women's football event at the 13th African Games, asserting that Uganda will not impede their progress, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The defending champions are set to face Uganda in the semi-final at the Cape Coast Stadium on Monday.

With a flawless record in the competition, having secured victories against Morocco and Senegal in the group stage, the Falconets are poised for success.

Danjuma emphasized his team's determination to reach the final and clinch the gold medal, highlighting their championship mentality.

“My expectation here is that we came with the mentality of champions and we want to go to the world Cup as champions in Africa and the only way to become champions is to make sure we take every match as a final,” Danjuma told the media as per Daily Post.

In another semi-final encounter, hosts Ghana are scheduled to square off against Senegal, promising an intense battle for a spot in the prestigious final.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

The Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) has called upon Shooting Stars and Remo Stars to exercise utmost restraint among their fans ahead of their upcoming South West derby clash, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a letter addressed to both clubs, the NPFL highlighted the matchday 26 fixture in Ibadan as high risk. Davidson Owumi, the Chief Operating Officer, emphasized the necessity of preventing any potential violence before, during, and after the match.

Owumi according to Daily Post, specifically urged Remo Stars to educate their traveling supporters on the importance of maintaining order and sportsmanship.

The responsibility of ensuring adequate and effective security falls heavily on the Oluyole Warriors as hosts, the letter stated.

The NPFL proposed the use of a public address system to appeal to fans of both teams to approach the match with a friendly disposition.

To enforce compliance, NPFL staff will be present to assist and monitor the situation, ensuring a peaceful atmosphere prevails.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Black stars head coach, Otto Addo has revealed a 26-man squad for the upcoming international friendly matches against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports:

The game, scheduled for Marrakech, Morocco during the international break, promise an exciting clash of talent due to the history of rivalry between the two West African giants.

Featuring a blend of seasoned campaigners and promising newcomers, the squad sees five players earning their debut call-ups.

Standouts include David Akologo from Bolivia, Ibrahim Osman from Nordsjaelland, Nathaniel Adjei from France, Diomande Mohammed from Rangers of Scotland, and Frederick Asare from Asante Kotoko.

Notable returns to the squad include Tariq Lamptey from Brighton and Hove Albion, who has recuperated from injury, along with Patrick Kpozo, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, and Edmund Addo.

Captain Andre Ayew leads a cohort of experienced players including Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Kudus, Osman Bukari, Samed Abdul Samed, and Elisha Owusu.

Meanwhile Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey and Athletic club forward, Inaki Williams wi  be missing for the Black Stars due injury:

Ghana is primed to take on Nigeria on Friday, March 22, followed by a clash against Uganda four days later.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

The Ikon Allah Boys are battle ready ahead of the NPFL Matchday 25 encounter against Sporting Lagos as Coach Majin Mohammed's wards looks to consolidate on an impressive away result recorded last weekend in Yenagoa.

Majin Mohammed warned his boys against complacency, saying that "the away win would amount to nothing if we fail to keep it water tight in our home games."

"We are not there yet, because we have some ground to cover to be able to remain afloat and maintain our NPFL status."

Majin Mohammed while addressing the players as made available to Nigeriasoccernet.com during the final preparation ahead of tomorrow's game added that the Lagos based club made some adjustments during the Mid-season transfer and is having a major effect in the team but that should not stop his boys from doing the right things to get the maximum points which is the ultimate target.

Tornadoes suffered a narrow defeat in Lagos in the reverse fixture when they succumbed to a Jonathan Alukwu and Junior Lokosa's goal sandwiched by Yahuza Bala's solitary effort in a 2-1 loss.

Sporting Lagos have recorded only three points on the road and scored four times in their twelve away games so far this season.

Tornadoes do not have any latest injury worries, neither a suspension, as all the traveling personnel were involved in the tactical preparation towards the game tomorrow.

Credit: NTFC MEDIA

By Olaleye Oluwadamilola

Nigeria Premier Football League champions, Enyimba have congratulated their captain, Ojo Olorunleke for his invite ahead of the Super Eagles friendlies against Ghana and Mali in Morocco, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

On March 22, the Super Eagles will kick off against Ghana, followed by a match against Mali four days later.

https://twitter.com/thenff/status/1766465524651659364?s=12

Despite being coach-less after the unsuccessful contract renewal with Jose Peseiro, the nation’s football governing body has also released a Olorunleke and 25 players for the upcoming friendlies.

Enyimba in turn congratulated their shotstopper who was also among the players who propelled Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.

https://twitter.com/enyimbafc/status/1766474320610525596?s=12

Meanwhile Olorunleke again is the only player from the local league who made the squad:

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Super Eagles goalkeeper, Ojo Olorunleke remains upbeat despite Enyimba’s recent defeat to Akwa United, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Enyimba, reigning champions of the Nigeria Premier Football League suffered a 3-1 loss to the Promise Keepers in Uyo.

Under the leadership of Finidi George, Enyimba now eyes a comeback as they host Doma United in Aba this Sunday.

The Enyimba captain expresses confidence in securing maximum points in the upcoming fixture, stating, “We are assuring our fans that we are going for nothing short of victory on Sunday against Doma United,” as Olorunleke conveyed to the club’s media.

With nine league titles to their name, Enyimba currently holds the fifth position on the NPFL table, amassing 39 points from 23 games.

Meanwhile, Doma United, enduring a winless streak in their last six NPFL encounters, occupies the 10th spot with 33 points from 23 matches.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

The Super Falcons, under the leadership of head coach Randy Waldrum, are gearing up for a crucial clash against the Indomitable Lionesses of Cameroon on Monday, Nigeriasoccenet.com reports.

Following a hard-fought 0-0 draw in the first leg of the 2024 Olympic Games qualifying third-round tie, anticipation is high for an electrifying showdown at the Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja.

Despite having a goal disallowed in the previous encounter, Waldrum remains optimistic about his team's prospects. "We played a good game in Douala, and we are confident of our chances to get the ticket in Abuja," Waldrum stated, expressing faith in his squad's abilities despite the limited time they've had to prepare.

With the overall winners set to face either South Africa or Tanzania in the final round, the stakes couldn't be higher.

The Super Falcons are poised to seize the opportunity and secure their path to Olympic glory.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Super Falcons coach, Randy Waldrum has named a strong starting lineup of the third round phase of the Olympics Games qualifiers against Cameroon, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Defender, Ashleigh Plumptre makes return to her position center back and the first eleven. The former Leicester city defender just as the gaffer is making her first appearances with the team since the FIFA Women’s World Cup at the Down Under.

The match taking placing at the Stade de la Réunification in Douala, Cameroon also has in the starting line up, African footballer of the year, Asisat Oshola and Rasheedat Ajibade as the captain.

https://twitter.com/ngsuper_falcons/status/1761060089543225448?s=12

Teenage sensation, Deborah Abiodun will be partnered by Christy Ucheibe, Halimatu Ayinde and Toni Payne

Nigeria last played at the Olympics in 2008. While the Cameroon stopped Waldrum’s women in 2012.

The Falcons will be hoping to do the chunk of the job in the first leg before playing the return leg in on Wednesday in Nigeria.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Nigerian forward, Henry Onyekuru remains optimistic about Al Feiha's chances against Cristiano Ronaldo's Al Nassr in their upcoming AFC Champions League showdown, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

In a crucial Round of 16 second leg fixture set to unfold in Riyadh this Wednesday, Al Feiha will endeavor to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg encounter, where Ronaldo netted the decisive goal just nine minutes from time.

Despite the setback, Onyekuru exudes confidence, asserting that nothing is insurmountable in football. He emphasizes the team's determination to secure victory and advance to the quarter-finals.

https://twitter.com/cristiano/status/1759966383700398340?s=12

Speaking to reporters ahead of the clash, the former Monaco forward emphasized the importance of playing aggressively and abandoning caution to outshine their formidable opponents.

While acknowledging Al Nassr's stature and talent, Onyekuru underlines Al Feiha's resolve to showcase their capabilities and delight their supporters.

With a recent standout performance, scoring a brace against Al-Hazm, Onyekuru aims to lead his team to glory, prioritizing victory above individual accolades.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

With the final between the Super Eagles of  Nigeria and the Elephants of Côte d’Ivoire almost at the corner, legendary football manager, Jose Mourihno has put his unwavering support behind Nigeria, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Both Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire already played in the group stage with the three time champions prevailing 1-0.

Mourihno claim revealed that Jose Peseiro (the Eagles head coach) has been is his best friend relishing their time in the university days and how he wished the 63 year-old become the first Portuguese coach to win the African Cup of Nations.

https://twitter.com/fiveuk/status/1756694850890559747?s=12

“My best friend in football is in the final. The Nigerian coach is my best friend. He grew up with me. We studied together, we went to the university together, the same day.” Mourihno said in an interview with FootballFive

“We spent five years together every day. We left the same he’s probably my biggest friend in football, Jose (Peseiro) is my big friend. And for him, a huge opportunity to make history because never has a Portuguese coach won the African cup.”

The high-stakes final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 pm on Sunday, February 11, at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) stands to gain a significant windfall of Seven Million dollars ($7M) from the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should the Super Eagles emerge victorious in today's final clash against hosts Cote D'Ivoire, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The prestigious 2023 AFCON final will see the three-time African champions lock horns with the formidable Elephants of Cote D'Ivoire, with the triumphant team set to cash in on Seven Million dollars.

CAF has disclosed the prize money structure for participating nations in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.

The eventual winner of AFCON 2023 will walk away with a hefty $7 million for clinching the coveted trophy, while the runners-up are poised to pocket $4 million. Additionally, the two losing semi-finalists (South Africa and DR Congo) will each be awarded $2.5 million.

Delving deeper into the prize breakdown, the four teams exiting at the quarter-final stage will each receive $1.3 million, while the eight teams eliminated in the round of 16 will be granted $800,000 apiece.

Furthermore, two teams that secure third place in their groups but fail to progress will still be entitled to $700,000 each. Meanwhile, the six teams finishing at the bottom of their respective groups are slated to receive $500,000 each.

The high-stakes final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations is scheduled to kick off at 9:00 pm on Sunday, February 11, at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Watford forward, Emmanuel Dennis speaks confidently of the Super Eagles lifting the Africa Cup of Nations with  Ivorian club teammate, Vakoun Bayo boosting of the quality in the Eagles team, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire will clash in the final at the Alssanne Quattara Stadium, Ebimpe, Abidjan on Sunday and both Dennis have cordially declared their loyalty for their representative national team.

While Bayo claim the Elephants will literally match the with their weight, Dennis opposed in the short video saying, “eagles fly, are not evening gonna see us.”

https://twitter.com/onejoblessboy/status/1756014569649062115?s=12

Nigeria prior to the final defeated Côte d’Ivoire 1-0 in the group stage of the competition.

The host nation have won the tournament twice while Nigeria will be fighting their fourth on Sunday by 9pm.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

The Elephants star man Franck Kessié,  shares his thoughts ahead of Ivory Coast's highly anticipated 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final against Nigeria, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.

The host nation, Ivory Coast, is set to lock horns with Nigeria at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan this Sunday.

Despite Nigeria's prior 1-0 victory over Ivory Coast in the group stage, the Ivorian team has turned their tournament around, securing three consecutive wins to reach the final.

Kessié acknowledges Nigeria's formidable strength as opponents and urges his teammates to maintain composure leading up to the final.

“We all know Nigeria is a very great football nation and a very good team," Kessié stated to beIN SPORTS.

“We were in the same group and we lost 1-0 unfortunately but we still have a match on Sunday so as I emphasized earlier today we are going to remain calm. We are going to savour our victory and from tomorrow with the help of the technical staff we will work and we will think about the final."

By Olujimi Dare Ogun

Super Eagles' wing-back Ola Aina remains undeterred despite his penalty miss in the ongoing 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Nigeroasoccernet.com reports.

The fullback  expressed his willingness to take another penalty for Nigeria if the opportunity arises again, ahead of their AFCON final clash against Ivory Coast on Sunday.

Aina's penalty miss occurred during Nigeria's thrilling semi-final victory over South Africa.

Despite the setback, the former Chelsea player emphasized his confidence in his penalty-taking abilities, stating, "Football is a roller coaster... I could put my money on it, I could put my house on it, I could put everything on it that I would've scored my penalty."

Acknowledging the support of his teammates and goalkeeper Nwabali, who saved the day, Aina remained grateful and focused on the task ahead. He affirmed, "You look forward and if it comes to it again [against Ivory Coast] I will be taking another one, but that is just me."

As Nigeria gears up for the AFCON final, Aina's determination to redeem himself underscores the team's spirit and resilience in pursuit of continental glory.

By Olujimi Dare Ogun