Super Eagles Stunned by Benin Republic, World Cup Hopes in Jeopardy

Super Eagles lose to Benin Republic and run the risk of missing out on the 2026 World Cup.

Nigeria's World Cup hopes in jeopardy after Super Eagles suffer shock 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic. With only three points from four qualifying matches, Nigeria risks missing out on the 2026 World Cup.

Benin Republic made history by defeating the Super Eagles 2-1 on Monday, June 10, a result that throws Nigeria's World Cup qualification into uncertainty.

Nigeria could miss the next football tournament after only three points from four World Cup qualifying matches.

With their World Cup qualification hopes on the line, the Super Eagles knew they had to secure a victory in their next match after being held to a draw by South Africa just days earlier.

Despite a dominant start, Nigeria waited until the 25th minute to break the deadlock, with Raphael Onyedika of Club Brugge expertly finishing from just inside the box to give the Super Eagles a deserved lead.

The Benin Cheetahs, led by former Nigerian coach Gernot Rohr, pulled even in the 37th minute, though. Jodei Dossou equalized the score by taking advantage of a defensive blunder made by the Super Eagles.

Benin Republic struck another blow just before the break, as Steve Mounie's goal extended Nigeria's misery, leaving the Super Eagles with an uphill battle in the second half.

Nigeria is now in fifth place in Group C for the 2026 World Cup qualifying after Monday's results.

Recall that on Friday, June 7, at Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, the Super Eagles were held to a one-one stalemate by fierce rivals South Africa in the third round of these qualifiers.