The Super Eagles of Nigeria face a mathematically complex but straightforward mission in their final 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic next week: a must-win victory combined with a favorable outcome in a rival fixture.
Following their narrow 2-1 victory over Lesotho and South Africa’s subsequent 0-0 draw with Zimbabwe, the race for the single automatic qualification spot in Group C has reached a fever pitch. Nigeria, currently sitting third on 14 points, trails Group leaders Benin Republic (17 points) and second-placed South Africa (15 points) going into the final matchday.
The Path to Automatic Qualification
For the Super Eagles to secure the top spot and direct entry into the 2026 finals in North America, they must execute a two-part scenario:
Defeat Benin by Two Goals: Nigeria must beat Benin Republic by at least a two-goal margin. This is crucial because Benin holds a superior goal difference (GD), and a single-goal victory for Nigeria would likely not be enough to overcome the leaders in the event of a tie on points.
South Africa Must Drop Points: Nigeria must simultaneously hope that South Africa fails to beat Rwanda in their final group fixture, meaning South Africa must either draw or lose their match. Should South Africa win, they would reach 18 points, making it impossible for Nigeria (maximum 17 points) to finish first.
Confidence in the Camp
Despite the precarious nature of the team’s fate, Super Eagles players remain confident in their ability to achieve the required result. Midfielder Alex Iwobi insisted the team’s belief is intact ahead of the final showdown.
“Of course, we believe that we’re going to go to the World Cup; otherwise, we wouldn’t be here,” Iwobi said, adding, “We’re going to try and do our best, so hopefully the fans can continue to believe in us as well.”
Former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi also weighed in on the do-or-die situation, urging the players to put aside distractions and deliver for the nation.
“It’s going to be a crime, an absolute crime, if Nigeria doesn’t make it to the World Cup again,” Mikel stated. “Our World Cup fate is in the players’ hands. They have to win these two games—no excuses.”
Nigeria’s final match against Benin Republic is scheduled for Tuesday in Uyo, a contest that will ultimately determine the nation’s 2026 World Cup destiny.
