2026 World Cup qualifier: The four Cheetahs players the Super Eagles cannot afford to ignore

The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium will host a high-stakes showdown as Nigeria’s Super Eagles take on Benin Republic’s Cheetahs in the final matchday of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. 

With Benin leading Group C on 17 points and Nigeria trailing at 14, the hosts must secure a victory to leapfrog their neighbors and clinch direct qualification, provided South Africa drops points against Rwanda.

Benin, led by former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, arrive in Nigeria on the back of a 1-0 victory over Rwanda, courtesy of Aiyegun Tosin’s late strike. 

The Cheetahs will aim to maintain their top spot with a disciplined performance against a determined Nigerian side.

Nigeria’s pathway to success will depend on neutralizing Benin’s attacking threats.

Captain Steve Mounié, 31, remains the most dangerous weapon for the visitors. 

The Alanyaspor striker, Benin’s all-time top scorer with 22 goals in 66 appearances, has scored three goals in these qualifiers, including a match-winner against Nigeria in 2024. 

Mounié’s aerial dominance and clinical finishing make him a constant threat, and shutting him down is key to disrupting Benin’s 4-2-3-1 system.

Right-winger Jodel Dossou, 33, adds creativity and pace, with two assists in the current campaign. 

Dossou’s dribbling and accurate crosses, often aimed at Mounié, will require close attention from the Nigerian defense.

Aiyegun Tosin, 27, of Lorient, scored the decisive goal against Rwanda and can exploit defensive lapses with his movement and finishing, highlighted by three Ligue 1 goals this season.

Midfield dynamo Hassane Imourane, 22, of Grasshopper, orchestrates Benin’s transitions with his box-to-box energy, passing range, and stamina, making him central to their offensive rhythm.

With both sides aware of what is at stake, the clash in Uyo promises to be intense. Nigeria will need to neutralize these four key players to secure the crucial victory that could propel the Super Eagles to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Wale Adejumo

Photo Credit: febefoot.org

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