2026 WCQ: ‘Last chance for Nigeria’ – Benin Republic players speak ahead of Super Eagles’ clash

Benin Republic stars Steve Mounie, Tosin Aiyegun, and Jodel Dossou have shared their thoughts ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifying clash against Nigeria at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Benin Republic defeated Rwanda 2-1 on Friday to edge closer to a maiden FIFA World Cup qualification.

Gernot Rohr’s side remain top of Group C, which also includes Nigeria and South Africa.

Their match against Rwanda had seemed destined to end in a goalless draw until Nigerian-born Tosin Aiyegun struck late to secure all three points for the visitors.

Up next for the Cheetahs is a decisive encounter against Nigeria on October 14.

Benin Republic could qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico with just a draw against Nigeria — provided South Africa drop points against Rwanda in the other fixture.

Ahead of the game, Mounie, Aiyegun, and Dossou expressed confidence in their team’s chances.

“We play football for this kind of match. It will be a historic meeting. We will give everything to take Benin to the World Cup,” Mounie was quoted as saying by Mega Sports.

Aiyegun added, “It won’t be easy there, but that’s football. We dreamed of playing a great match. Now it’s against Nigeria. We have to give it our all.”

Dossou said, “We have our destiny in our own hands. It will be an electric match, Nigeria’s last chance. But we won’t let ourselves be pushed around either. We’ll do everything we can to get a positive result and keep dreaming.”

Benin Republic handed Nigeria their only defeat in the ongoing qualifying series on matchday four in June 2024.