Benin’s captain, Steve Mounie, underlined his team’s motivation ahead of what he called “a dream occasion for every footballer.”
“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,” the powerful striker declared.
That sense of purpose was reinforced last Friday when the Cheetahs battled to a 1-0 victory over Rwanda in Kigali, keeping them top of Group C with 17 points from nine matches. The result has set the stage for tonight’s high-pressure clash at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.
For Rohr’s side, the equation is simple: avoid defeat and history beckons. Even if they lose, Benin could still progress if South Africa fail to overcome Rwanda in the group’s other decisive tie.
Nigeria, however, face a different reality. The Super Eagles, trailing closely behind in the standings, must rise to the occasion and claim all three points to keep their qualification dream alive. Anything less could see them miss out on football’s grandest stage—an outcome unthinkable for a nation with such pedigree.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, the “Battle of Uyo” promises to be a gripping contest of pride, ambition, and redemption—where one side aims to make history and the other fights to avoid heartbreak.