Benin vs Nigeria: Super Eagles possible XI - Boniface demoted, Osimhen returns

Super Eagles forwards led by Victor Osimhen and Victor Boniface.

Benin vs Nigeria: Super Eagles possible XI - Boniface demoted, Osimhen returns

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 10:50 - 13.11.2024

How Nigeria's Super Eagles will line up against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in the important AFCONQ2025.

As Nigeria prepares to face Benin Republic in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday, the Super Eagles are looking to secure their place in next year’s tournament in Morocco. 

With just one point needed to guarantee qualification, coach Augustine Eguavoen has a wealth of talents at his disposal.

The match will take place in Abidjan, and the Super Eagles are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. Here’s a look at the predicted starting XI:

Goalkeeper:

Stanley Nwabali will continue as the first-choice goalkeeper, having demonstrated impressive form in recent matches.

Stanley Nwabali announced himself on the big stage at AFCON 2023 |Photo Credit: Imago

Defenders:

The back four is likely to remain unchanged from the previous match against Libya, featuring:

  • Calvin Bassey (left centre-back)
  • William Troost-Ekong (centre-back)
  • Ola Aina (right-back)
  • Bruno Onyeamachi (left-back)
Troost-Ekong will battle teammate Ademola Lookman for the coveted award.

Midfielders:

Wilfred Ndidi and Frank Onyeka are expected to anchor the midfield, providing both defensive stability and support for the attack.

Wilfred Ndidi, Dele-Bashiru and Taiwo Awoniyi.

Attackers:

The attacking lineup will see:

  • Ademola Lookman on the left wing
  • Victor Osimhen, returning from injury, taking the central striker role
  • Samuel Chukwueze on the right wing
  • Alex Iwobi operating in a central attacking position
Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman playing for Nigeria || Imago

Notably, Victor Boniface, who failed to capitalise on Osimhen's absence in the last match against Libya, is set to drop to the bench. 

Osimhen's return is a significant boost for Nigeria as he looks to make an impact after missing previous fixtures due to injury.

Osimhen's message to Boniface after a poor outing against Libya. || Instagram

This encounter is an important moment for the Super Eagles, who are eager to bounce back after their last meeting with Benin, which resulted in a surprising defeat at the same venue. 

Historically, Nigeria has dominated this matchup, winning three out of their last four encounters.

Super Eagles boss Ausgustine Eguavoen looking to finish on a high. || X

With Eguavoen at the helm and a strong squad ready to take the field, expectations are high for Nigeria to secure the necessary points against the Cheetahs of Benin Republic.