Benin vs Nigeria: Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier Preview

The highly anticipated match between Benin and Nigeria is just around the corner, with both teams vying for supremacy in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The encounter promises to be an electrifying clash between two West African powerhouses.

Team News

Nigeria’s squad has received a significant boost with the return of key players Victor Osimhen and William Troost-Ekong, who missed the World Cup qualifiers due to injuries. Taiwo Awoniyi is also back in the team after a long absence, adding depth to the Super Eagles’ attack. However, Bright Osayi-Samuel won’t be playing due to an injury and has been replaced by Benjamin Tanimu.

On the other hand, Benin’s team will be led by Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie, who scored against Nigeria in their previous encounter. The team has also called up Bachirou Sika and Samadou Attidjikou for the first time, injecting fresh talent into the squad.

Head-to-Head Statistics

Nigeria and Benin have a rich history of competition, with the Super Eagles holding a slight edge:

Total Meetings: 14
Nigeria Wins: 8
Benin Wins: 4
Draws: 2

Recent Form

Nigeria has been impressive in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, losing only one of their last 12 matches. Benin, however, has struggled to find consistency, winning three of their last 12 matches under coach Gernot Rohr.

Predictions

Experts predict a 2-0 win for Nigeria, given their strong home advantage and the return of key players. However, Benin’s recent win against Nigeria in the World Cup qualifiers will give them confidence, and they might just pull off an upset.

Possible Lineups

Nigeria:

Francis Uzoho (GK)
Ola Aina (RB)
William Troost-Ekong (CB)
Semi Ajayi (CB)
Calvin Bassey (LB)
Wilfred Ndidi (DM)
Alex Iwobi (AM)
Kelechi Iheanacho (AM)
Henry Onyekuru (RW)
Victor Osimhen (ST)
Samuel Chukwueze (LW)

Benin:

Cherif Dandjinou (GK)
David Moumini (RB)
Khaled Adenon (CB)
Jordan Adeoti (CB)
Emmanuel Imorou (LB)
Sessi D’Almeida (DM)
Jodel Dossou (RM)
Stephane Sessegnon (AM)
Steve Mounie (ST)
Mickael Pote (ST)
Cebio Soukou (LW)

Match Details

Date: [Insert Date]
Time: [Insert Time]
Venue: [Insert Venue]
Referee: [Insert Referee]

Conclusion

The Benin vs Nigeria match promises to be an intense and thrilling encounter, with both teams eager to claim victory. Will Nigeria’s strong squad and home advantage prove too much for Benin, or can the Squirrels pull off a stunning upset? Tune in to find out.