Ballon d'Or contender,  Africa's finest, Man City product, Bundesliga winner: 4 Super Eagles players to watch 

Nigeria's Super Eagles will begin their 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign against Benin on Saturday in Uyo. 

After a run of three games without a win in recent international windows, the team is eager to return to winning form. 

To secure a victory, the Eagles will rely on several key players who have much to prove.

Allnigeriasoccer.com highlights four players who will be crucial in this encounter.

Victor Osimhen

Reigning African Footballer of the Year, Victor Osimhen will be pivotal for Nigeria against Benin. 

The 25-year-old forward returned to the squad amid controversies from the past summer, which saw him miss Nigeria's previous matches in June due to a fallout with former manager Finidi George and an unsuccessful transfer window.

Osimhen will be keen to restore his reputation and lead Nigeria to victory if given the starting role.

Victor Boniface

A Bundesliga winner with Bayer Leverkusen, Victor Boniface is another player with a point to prove. 

Despite a strong performance for Bayer Leverkusen, including 14 goals and 9 assists in the Bundesliga last campaign, he has yet to score for Nigeria since his debut. 

The 23-year-old, born in Akure, will be looking to make his mark and help the Super Eagles secure a win.

Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

Macnhester City academy graduate Fisayo Dele-Bashiru is also in the spotlight following his goal against South Africa in June. 

His goal was a crucial equalizer, but his game was cut short due to injury. 

Returning to Uyo, where he scored his first goal, Dele-Bashiru aims to continue his impressive form, building on a strong start to his career in Italy.

Ademola Lookman

Ademola Lookman, recently nominated for the Ballon d'Or, will also play a significant role against Benin. 

The Atalanta winger will be looking to build on his outstanding season and surpass the previous Ballon d'Or ranking of Victor Osimhen.

Osimhen finished eighth in the last Ballon d'Or ranking in 2023 following his performance and achievement with Napoli. 

Lookman’s performance will be crucial in Nigeria's bid to start their AFCON qualifying campaign with a win.

As the Super Eagles prepare for their clash with Benin, these players will be essential to their success on the pitch.

Adeyemi Adewale

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