Nigeria's Supper Eagles will seek revenge when they host their counterparts from Benin Republic in their first match of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

In June, the Cheetahs, led by Gernot Rohr, defeated the three-time African Champions 2-1 in a FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifier in Abidjan. Both teams have been drawn in Group D of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers alongside Rwanda and Libya.

Following a 1-1 draw between Libya and Rwanda, the Super Eagles, led by Augustine Eguavoen, will seek all three points against Benin to go top of the group.

Team News

About 22 of the 23 players invited by Eguavoen have arrived in Uyo, with new Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen also with the squad.

Reports suggest the striker might miss the encounter as he will arrive late following last week's transfer debacle.

Head coach Eguavoen assures Nigeria of a positive outing during the encounter. The tactician said via SuperSport:

"I will do it for the love of the country and the game. Remember, football gave me name and fame, and the country gave me the opportunity, so it’s difficult to say no at this point because of the circumstances we find ourselves in.”

Terem Moffi remains a long-term absentee after suffering an ACL before the start of the season.

Victor Boniface and Taiwo Awoniyi are expected to lead the attack against the visitors on match day.

On the other hand, Gernot Rohr will miss out on the services of injured star striker Mohamed Tijani.

The former Nigerian national team handler believes he can spring surprises against his former employers.

The German tactician said: "I am used to the environment, the players and all. I am also positive that we will leave Nigeria with a result."

Date, Time and How to Watch Nigeria vs Benin

The crucial AFCON qualifier is slated for the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Saturday, September 7.

Kick-off: 5pm Nigerian time The match would be live on SuperSports and NTA on StarTimes.

Ready to get dirty 🔥 #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/x0O0nHTLrA

— 🇳🇬 Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) September 5, 2024

Predicted Line-Up

Nigeria

Stanley Nwabali; William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Bruno Onyemaechi; Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru; Samuel Chukwueze, Ademola Lookman, Victor Osimhen.

Benin

Marcel Dandjinou; Abdoul Moumini, Cedric Hountondji, Yohan Roche, David Kiki; Sessi D’Almeida, Jodel Dossou, Douko Dodo, Hassane Imourane, Junior Olaitan; Steve Mounie.