Benin Republic national team, the Cheetahs, are brimming with confidence ahead of their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Nigeria on Tuesday in Uyo.

The Cheetahs moved top of Group C after securing a hard-fought 1-0 win over Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium in Kigali on Friday.

Nigerian-born forward Tosin Aiyegun scored the decisive goal ten minutes from time to hand Gernot Rohr’s men a vital three points.

Benin now need only to avoid defeat against the Super Eagles to qualify for their first-ever World Cup, while a draw could also suffice if South Africa fail to beat Rwanda in the group’s other fixture.

Mounie: “We will give everything for Benin”

Captain Steve Mounie described the upcoming clash as a defining moment in Benin’s football history.

“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,” Mounie told Mega Sports.

Aiyegun, Dossou share confidence ahead of Uyo clash

Goal hero Aiyegun admitted it will be a tough test but insists the team is ready to fight.

“It won’t be easy there, but that’s football. We dreamed of playing a great match. Now it’s against Nigeria. We have to give it our all,” said the Zurich forward.

Meanwhile, winger Jodel Dossou emphasised that the Cheetahs are determined to control their own fate.

“We have our destiny in our own hands. It will be an electric match, Nigeria’s last chance. But we won’t let ourselves be pushed around either. We’ll do everything we can to get a positive result and keep dreaming.”

Benin look to complete double over Nigeria

Tuesday’s encounter at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium promises fireworks, with Nigeria seeking revenge for their 2-1 defeat to Benin in June 2024.

The Super Eagles had taken an early lead through Raphael Onyedika before conceding twice in quick succession, handing Rohr’s side a famous victory.