Today, on June 10, 2024, the Cheetahs of Benin Republic achieved a significant victory over the Super Eagles of Nigeria for the second time in their history.
The match took place at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, as Benin Republic currently lacks a suitable stadium to host their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
After recording three draws in their first 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification games, many football enthusiasts anticipated that the Super Eagles would secure their first win in the campaign against Benin Republic.
However, the Cheetahs, coached by German tactician Gernot Rohr, who previously led the Super Eagles, proved to be a formidable opponent.
Coach Finidi George’s team started the game promisingly, scoring the opening goal through Raphael Onyedika in the 27th minute. Despite this early lead, poor communication among Nigerian defenders allowed the Cheetahs to equalize through Jodel Dossou in the 37th minute.
Before halftime, another defensive lapse led to Benin Republic taking the lead with a free header from Steve Mounie.
In the second half, Coach Finidi George made several changes, including bringing on Victor Boniface, Paul Onuachu, and Frank Onyeka, but their introduction failed to make a difference.
The Super Eagles struggled to communicate effectively near the Beninese penalty box, resulting in a lack of cohesion in their attack.
Ultimately, the Nigerian side’s poor performance left them in the 5th spot in Group C. If 6th-placed Zimbabwe were to beat South Africa on June 11, the Super Eagles could find themselves at the bottom of the group.