Benin vs Nigeria: Preview, Prediction, Team News, Head to Head and Predicted Lineups.
Tournament: Africa Cup of Nations, 2025 AFCON Qualifiers
Teams: Benin Republic vs Nigeria
Date: Thursday, November 14, 2024
Time: 7 pm GMT
Venue: Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny, Abidjan
In an eagerly anticipated clash in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Qualifiers, Benin will host Nigeria on November 14, 2024, at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny. This Group D matchup is critical for both teams, especially Benin, as they fight to secure their place in the next round. Nigeria leads Group D with 10 points from four matches, while Benin holds second place with six points. The outcome of this match could significantly impact the standings and determine which teams advance.
RELATED:Â Namibia vs Cameroon: Prediction, Lineups & Team News | AFCON Qualifiers, Nov. 13, 2024
Benin’s Path to Qualification
Benin National Football Team’s qualification campaign has been marked by mixed performances. They currently occupy second place with six points, four behind Nigeria. Benin Republic‘s two victories and two defeats have kept them above Rwanda by just one point, creating a competitive scenario where each game is essential.
A loss against Nigeria, combined with a victory for Rwanda over Libya, would see Benin drop to third place, threatening their qualification hopes. This critical situation demands a strong performance from Benin, who will look to make full use of their home advantage and secure a result against a formidable Nigerian side.
Nigeria’s Dominance in Group D
Super Eagles of Nigeria has enjoyed a successful campaign in Group D, sitting at the top with three wins and one draw from four matches. With 10 points, the Super Eagles are nearly assured of progressing to the next round, and a win or draw against Benin would officially secure their spot. Nigeria’s strong position allows them some flexibility, but they will still seek a victory to maintain their momentum.
Team News and Predicted Lineups
Benin National Football Team News
Benin will enter this match with a fully fit squad, giving them the advantage of deploying their best lineup. Manager Moussa Latoundji has a range of choices, including several players who have been instrumental in Benin’s AFCON campaign. The lineup is expected to feature a blend of defensive strength and attacking prowess, given the high stakes of the encounter.
Benin National Football Team Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Marcel Dandjinou
- Defenders: Rachid Moumini, Cedric Hountondji, Mohamed Tijani, Yohan Roche
-  Midfielders: Sessi D’Almeida, Hassane Imourane, Douko Dodo
- Â Forwards: Andreas Houtondji, Steve Mounie, Junior Olaitan
Nigeria National Football Team News
Nigeria will also field a fully fit squad, with no reported injuries. Head coach Jose Peseiro is likely to continue with his preferred lineup, which has been instrumental in their success thus far. Super Eagles’ squad depth is one of their biggest strengths, and they boast several high-caliber players in both the starting lineup and bench.
Nigeria National Football Team Predicted Lineup (4-2-3-1):
- Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabili
- Defenders: Ola Aina, William Troost-Ekong, Calvin Bassey, Sopuruchukwu Onyemaechi
- Midfielders: Wilfred Ndidi, Frank Onyeka, Alex Iwobi
- Forwards: Moses Simon, Victor Boniface, Ademola Lookman
Head-to-Head Record: Benin vs Nigeria
Nigeria National Football Team has dominated past encounters with Benin Republic. Out of their last four matches, Nigeria has won three, while Benin has managed only one victory.
Last Five Results:
- Nigeria 3-0 Benin (AFCON Qualifiers, September 7, 2024)
- Benin 2-1 Nigeria (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, June 10, 2024)
- Benin 0-1 Nigeria (AFCON Qualifiers, March 27, 2021)
- Nigeria 2-1 Benin (AFCON Qualifiers, November 13, 2019)
Key Players to Watch
Benin Republic National Football Team: Andreas Houtondji
Benin’s right winger, Andreas Houtondji, currently plays for Burnley in the English Premier League. Known for his pace and technical skills, the 22-year-old has shown promise at both the club and international levels. Although Houtondji is still finding his footing at Burnley, he has made an impact for the national team, scoring twice in 10 appearances. He was particularly impressive in Benin’s recent 2-1 victory over Rwanda, where he scored a crucial goal. Against Nigeria, Houtondji’s attacking flair will be key if Benin hopes to break down a well-organized Nigerian defense.
Nigeria National Football Team: Ademola Lookman
Ademola Lookman has been a standout for both club and country. The forward, who plays for Atalanta in Italy’s Serie A, has been in remarkable form, particularly since the beginning of the 2023-24 season. Lookman’s highlights include a hat-trick in the UEFA Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen, securing Atalanta’s first European trophy. Lookman has scored eight goals and provided five assists in 14 appearances across all competitions this season. For Nigeria, Lookman’s record stands at eight goals and four assists in 26 games. His creativity and scoring ability will be essential for Nigeria in the upcoming match.
Benin vs Nigeria Prediction
Despite Nigeria’s comfortable position at the top of Group D, they are unlikely to take Benin lightly. A win or even a draw would secure Nigeria’s qualification, allowing them the freedom to experiment in their final group match. Nigeria’s FIFA ranking of 36 contrasts sharply with Benin’s 95th position, underscoring their strength.
Benin has shown resilience, bouncing back from a string of poor performances to win four of their last six matches. However, they suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Nigeria in their last encounter. While Benin’s determination and home support will make for a spirited game, Nigeria’s quality and experience could give them the edge.
Soccer Baba Predicted Score: Benin 1-2 Nigeria
Where to Watch Benin vs Nigeria Live?
For fans eager to follow the action, the Benin vs Nigeria game will be available on multiple streaming platforms. Check below for available viewing options:
| Country | Where to Watch |
|---|---|
| USA | Fanatiz |
| UK | FIFA+ |
| India | FanCode |
| Benin | Canal+ |
| Nigeria | SuperSport |
| Ghana | SuperSport |
| South Africa | SuperSport |
| Ivory Coast | Canal+ |
RELATED:Â Kazakhstan vs Austria Prediction, Preview, h2h, Lineups | Nations League, Nov. 14, 2024
Conclusion
The Benin vs Nigeria clash in the AFCON Qualifiers is shaping up to be an exciting matchup with significant implications for both teams. While Nigeria is close to securing their spot in the next round, Benin is fighting to stay in contention. With key players like Andreas Houtondji and Ademola Lookman poised to influence the game, fans can expect a thrilling encounter.
Both teams bring different motivations to the table—Benin to retain second place and keep their qualification hopes alive, and Nigeria to cement their dominance in Group D. Whether you’re cheering from Benin or Nigeria National Football Team, this game promises to deliver high-stakes football.