Benin Hit With Major Setback Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers Against Nigeria
- The Benin Republic have been hit with a major setback ahead of their must-win 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria
- Gernot Rohr's side are already in Uyo as they hope to qualify for the global football competition for the first time next year
- South Africans shared their thoughts after reports confirmed that Benin has suffered a big blow ahead of the Super Eagles clash
The Benin Republic has suffered a major blow ahead of Tuesday’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against the Super Eagles of Nigeria in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom.
Source: Getty Images
The Cheetahs travel to the Godswill Akpabio Stadium for a high-stakes encounter with the Super Eagles, as both sides remain in contention for a spot at the global showpiece. With three crucial points on the line, the clash is expected to bring a thrilling conclusion to the qualifying campaign.
South Africa will have one eye on the match as the result of the encounter will influence their chances of qualifying for the competition next year.
Bafana Bafana were initially cruising in Group C and were favourites to clinch the top spot, but after FIFA docked three points from their tally for fielding an ineligible player, their chances of qualifying for the competition suffered a major setback.
Benin hit with a major blow
However, Benin’s preparations have been rocked by the suspension of two key players, both of whom were ruled out after receiving their second yellow cards in Friday’s match against Rwanda.
Gernot Rohr will be forced to reshuffle his defence against Nigeria after key players Yohan Roche, who plays for FC Petrolul Ploiesti, and Sessi D’Almeida, who plays for Neftchi PFK, were ruled out through suspension.
Reflecting on his side’s previous outing, Rohr admitted that it had been a tough encounter but remained upbeat about their chances in Uyo, a place he is familiar with after working as Nigeria's coach for years.
“It was a tough match, Rwanda were desperate to win, and we wanted to enjoy the victory. But we still have something big to achieve in Uyo,” he told Nigerian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana.
Source: Getty Images
The German tactician acknowledged the setback but believes qualification remains within reach.
“We’ve lost two key players for the Nigeria match because of yellow cards, but everything is still possible for the three teams, Bafana Bafana, Benin, and Nigeria. The decision is now in our hands, which can be a small advantage. But we’ll see, big suspense until the end.”
South Africans shared their thoughts on Benin losing two key players for their tie against Nigeria.
Nathan Dee commented:
"Good to know that Group C leaders in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Benin, have suffered a huge setback ahead of Tuesday’s crucial clash with Nigeria in Uyo."
Mnesh Khumalo said:
"Mind games...dnt believe anything..."
Thomas Ngwenya reacted:
"Nigeria will beat 🇧🇯 Benin and South Africa must beat Rwanda to automatically qualify for 2026 world cup in North America."
Move Trevor Mathebula shared:
"Even if Nigeria can beat Benin.....I don't see Bafana beating Rwanda."
Amon Maseko wrote:
"Come to think how comfortable we were on top of the group, fully in control until a certain administrator slept on his job,I wonder how he feels letting down so many people 😭."
Lucky Ngwato Ramongkung Thobejane added:
"Good luck Benin win the match or draw go to world cup for the first time."
Chelle declares war on Benin
Briefly News earlier reported that Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has declared war ahead of Nigeria's tie against the Benin Republic.
The Malian tactician has tasked his team to go all out for the three points with the hope of qualifying for the World Cup.
Source: Briefly News
