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Nigeria’s Super Eagles, the reigning runners-up in African football, are poised to secure a place in the 35th Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament with a win over the Cheetahs of Benin Republic in today’s crucial Matchday 5 qualifier in Abidjan.
This pivotal game, officiated by Senegalese referee Issa Sy, will see the Super Eagles striving for a decisive three points.
With three wins and one draw in their previous four games, the Super Eagles currently lead the group with 10 points—four ahead of second-placed Benin Republic.
A win in this match would virtually guarantee Nigeria’s top spot in the group as they approach the final qualification rounds.
Meanwhile, the Cheetahs, who sit at six points, are in a tight spot. Following a recent setback against Rwanda, they need a victory to maintain their qualification hopes.
With both Rwanda and Libya still technically in contention, the dynamics make this clash an intense 90 minutes at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny.
Coach Augustine Eguavoen is expected to maintain a familiar defensive lineup in the absence of injured centre-back Semi Ajayi, with Captain William Ekong and Calvin Bassey anchoring the defense. Olaoluwa Aina and Bruno Onyemaechi are set to feature as wing-backs. In midfield, options include Wilfred Ndidi, Alex Iwobi, and defensive players such as Frank Onyeka and Raphael Onyedika.
For the attack, stars like Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Moses Simon, and Kelechi Iheanacho are available.
If the Super Eagles emerge victorious, their final qualifier against Rwanda on Monday in Uyo will be a formality, allowing Nigeria to play for pride while Rwanda seeks a result.
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