The Confederation of African Football CAF has scheduled the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between the Super Eagles of Nigeria and the Squirrels of Benin Republic for Monday, June 10. The match will take place at the Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, with a kickoff time of 5 PM Nigeria time.
Benin will play all their home games in Côte d’Ivoire after their home grounds were deemed unsuitable for international matches. Ethiopia’s Bamlak Tessema Weyesa has been appointed as the centre referee for the game.
Prior to this match, the Super Eagles will host South Africa’s Bafana Bafana at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Friday, June 7. The Nigerian team, currently second in Group C with two points from two games, is still searching for their first win in the qualifiers.
Editorial
The Bet9ja promotion code for October 2024 is YOHAIG. This Bet9ja promo code gives a welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on your first deposit. The minimum deposit to bet is ₦100! USE the Bet9ja login signup to get started today.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The announcement of the venue and date for the crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and the Benin Republic adds an exciting dimension to the Super Eagles’ campaign. Playing in Abidjan, a neutral venue, could offer a balanced environment for both teams, potentially impacting the dynamics of the game.
For the Super Eagles, securing their first win in the qualifiers is paramount. With the team currently second in Group C, every match is critical for maintaining their World Cup aspirations. The game against South Africa just three days prior will also test the team’s endurance and strategic planning. Balancing preparation and recovery will be crucial for coach Finidi George and his squad.
The selection of Bamlak Tessema Weyesa as the centre referee ensures experienced officiating, which is vital for maintaining the integrity and fairness of the match. His role will be pivotal in ensuring that the game is conducted smoothly and without controversy.
The neutral venue in Abidjan offers an intriguing twist, as it removes the traditional home advantage for Benin. This could level the playing field and make for an intensely competitive match. For Nigerian fans, this is an opportunity to support their team in a pivotal encounter that could shape their path to the 2026 World Cup.
Did You Know?
- The Felix Houphouet Boigny Stadium in Abidjan, where the match will be held, is one of the largest stadiums in Côte d’Ivoire and has hosted numerous significant international matches.
- Benin’s home grounds were not approved for international matches, prompting them to play their home games in Côte d’Ivoire.
- The Super Eagles have a rich history in the World Cup, having qualified for six out of the last seven tournaments since their debut in 1994.
- Ethiopia’s Bamlak Tessema Weyesa, appointed as the centre referee, is one of Africa’s most respected referees and has officiated in several high-profile matches, including the Africa Cup of Nations.
- Nigeria’s Super Eagles are currently managed by Finidi George, a former international player known for his contributions to the team during his playing career in the 1990s.
