Boniface and Chukwueze for Nigeria's Benin matchup?

Nigeria is poised to secure their first win in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they prepare to take on Benin on Monday. Currently occupying the fifth spot in Group C with three draws, the Super Eagles are eager to secure a victory after their recent 1-1 draw against South Africa in Uyo.

Despite maintaining an undefeated record, Finidi George’s squad faces a challenging path to qualify for the global tournament, having missed out on the Qatar 2022 edition.

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A feel of the Felix Houphouet-Boigny Stadium #soarsupereagles pic.twitter.com/4ojbRPPPVP
— ?? Super Eagles (@NGSuperEagles) June 9, 2024

According to 24hscore, here’s the anticipated lineup for the three-time African champions as they gear up to face Gernot Rohr’s Squirrels at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan.

Stanley Nwabali: Following his commendable performance against South Africa, Nwabali, the Chippa United goalkeeper, is expected to retain his place in the lineup. Despite conceding a goal, the 28-year-old showcased excellent organizational skills and made crucial saves to deny the opposition.
Benjamin Tanimu: Despite playing in an unfamiliar role in the previous match, Tanimu displayed dominance and consistency, making significant contributions on both ends of the pitch. Barring any tactical changes, he is likely to feature against Benin.
Semi Ajayi: Ajayi delivered a solid performance against Bafana Bafana, demonstrating his defensive prowess with multiple clearances, interceptions, and tackles. Given the team’s defensive requirements, he is expected to maintain his position in the starting lineup.
Calvin Bassey: Forming a partnership with Ajayi in the heart of Nigeria’s defense, Bassey is anticipated to start against Benin. Coach Finidi’s preference for continuity in the backline suggests that Bassey will retain his place in the team.
Bright Osayi-Samuel: Likely to occupy the right-back position, Osayi-Samuel brings versatility and defensive stability to the Super Eagles’ lineup.
Wilfred Ndidi: With the absence of key players like Ahmed Musa and William Troost-Ekong, Ndidi is set to lead the team as the captain. His experience and leadership qualities will be instrumental in guiding the team through midfield battles.
Alex Iwobi: Iwobi’s exceptional performance against South Africa earned him a pivotal role in Nigeria’s midfield. His ability to create scoring opportunities and dictate play will be vital for the team’s success.
Ademola Lookman: Despite facing tight marking in the previous match, Lookman is expected to start against Benin. His attacking prowess and ability to unlock defenses make him a valuable asset for the team.
Samuel Chukwueze: Chukwueze’s impactful performance off the bench in the last match earns him a spot in the starting lineup. His pace and creativity will pose a significant threat to the opposition’s defense.
Paul Onuachu: Despite a challenging outing in the previous match, Onuachu is likely to lead the line for Nigeria once again. His height and physical presence offer a different dimension to the team’s attacking play.
Victor Boniface: Expected to spearhead Nigeria’s goal-scoring efforts, Boniface is favored to start in the absence of Victor Osimhen. With a successful season in the Bundesliga, he brings goal-scoring prowess and attacking flair to the team.