Frank Christian
Nigeria is close to qualifying for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, but they face a challenge from Benin. Last month’s disrupted match in Libya led to Nigeria being awarded the points they needed. They now require just a draw from this match or their last game against Rwanda to advance from Group D.
Benin, under the guidance of former Super Eagles coach Gernot Rohr, is eager to create an upset, especially after their 2-1 win in June, which jeopardized Nigeria’s World Cup qualification.
Projected Nigeria Line-up for the Match Against Benin
Star striker Victor Osimhen returns to the Super Eagles, showcasing impressive form with eight goals in nine games for Galatasaray this season.
Real Sociedad forward Sadiq Umar joins the squad for the first time since his ACL injury, adding depth to the attack.
Defenders Olisa Ndah and Semi Ajayi are unavailable again, prompting coach Eguavoen to include Gabriel Osho from Auxerre and Victor Collins of Nasarawa United in the defensive lineup.
Predicted Nigeria XI (3-4-3): Nwabali (GK) — Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey — Onyemaechi, Ndidi, Onyeka, Iwobi — Simon, Osimhen, Lookman
Full Squad Breakdown:
Goalkeepers: Stanley Nwabali, Maduka Okoye, Amas Obasogie
Defenders: William Ekong, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Bruno Onyemaechi, Gabriel Osho, Calvin Bassey, Ola Aina, Victor Collins
Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Raphael Onyedika, Alhassan Yusuf, Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi
Forwards: Samuel Chukwueze, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Kelechi Iheanacho, Victor Boniface, Moses Simon, Sadiq Umar
Kickoff Time for Nigeria vs. Libya
The AFCON qualifying match is set to happen at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, kicking off at 7:00 p.m. local time. Benin lacks a suitable venue for the match.
Below are the kickoff times in various major regions:
| Date | Kickoff time | |
| USA | Thu, Nov. 14 | 2 p.m. ET |
| Canada | Thu, Nov. 14 | 2 p.m. ET |
| Australia | Fri, Nov. 15 | 6 a.m. AEDT |
| UK | Thu, Nov. 14 | 7 p.m. BST |
| India | Fri, Nov. 15 | 12:30 a.m. IST |
