National Teams
AFCON 2025 Qualifiers: Time and where to watch Benin Republic vs Nigeria
By: Monsurah Olatunji
As Nigeria prepares to face Benin Republic in a crucial Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier on Thursday to secure their place in next year’s tournament in Morocco, here is all you need to know ahead of the encounter.
The match will take place in Abidjan, the venue where in the summer, where Nigeria suffered a 2-1 loss to Benin Republic in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying game.
However, the Super Eagles simply need a win or draw to guarantee a spot in the 35th AFCON, which will take place from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026.
This will be the second meeting between the two countries after Nigeria lost in the qualifying round for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, Nigeria recorded a 3-0 victory at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium against Benin Republic.
Meanwhile Osimhen’s return is a significant boost for Nigeria as he looks to make an impact after missing previous fixtures due to injury.
Both sides have met 18 times in all competitions and the Super Eagles have won 14, lost 2, and drawn 2. The Cheetahs won for the first time in a 1-0 triumph in 2017 before recently registering a win in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier.
On Thursday, September 14, the Super Eagles of Nigeria play the Benin Republic’s Cheetahs for the Matchday 5 AFCON 2025 qualifiers encounter.
Both teams will face off at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Cote d’Ivoire as Benin Republic do not have a CAF-approved facility in their country.
The match is scheduled for 5 PM Nigerian time and will air live on Supersport and Afro Sports
This encounter is an important moment for the Super Eagles, who are eager to bounce back after their last meeting with Benin, which resulted in a surprising defeat at the same venue.
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