W’Cup: Osimhen scores as Nigeria take early lead in crucial qualification

Eagles

The Super Eagles are set to lock horns in a decisive 2026 World Cup qualification against the Cheetahs of the Benin Republic at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.

In a post on Super Eagles X’s handle on Tuesday, the Eagles announced four changes from their previous win over Lesotho, with Wilfred Ndidi named captain for the game.

The Nigeria Football Federation also confirmed that Moses Simon will make his 85th international appearance, while Victor Osimhen partners Akor Adams in attack.

“Four changes from our win over Lesotho. Ndidi leads the team tonight. Simon makes his 85th appearance. Osimhen partners Akor Adams up front,” the post read.

Nigeria’s Line-up vs Benin Republic: 23. Stanley Nwabali (GK); 2. Benjamin Fredrick, 3. Zaidu Sanusi, 4. Wilfred Ndidi (C), 6. Semi Ajayi, 9. Victor Osimhen, 11. Samuel Chukwueze, 15. Moses Simon, 17. Alex Iwobi, 20. Akor Adams, 21. Calvin Bassey.

Substitutes are: Adebayo, Ekong, Arokodare, Onyeka, Onyemaechi, Abdullahi, Obasogie, Uche, Moffi, Olusegun.

As the match kicked off, Victor Osimhen scored in the third minute courtesy of an assist from Samuel Chukwueze.

The Cheetahs of the Benin Republic are also pushing for an equaliser in the 12th minute of the match, but the attack was stopped by Calvin Bassey. Punch