Super Eagles captain Ahmed Musa has called on his teammates to give him the perfect birthday gift — a vital win against Benin Republic — as Nigeria battles to keep its 2026 World Cup qualification hopes alive in Uyo today.

In a video shared by the team on X (formerly Twitter), the 33-year-old forward expressed his excitement and urged his teammates to approach the match with full determination, describing the fixture as “more than just three points.”

“Hello guys, today is the day, and today is my birthday.
We all know what’s at stake as we wait for the South Africa–Rwanda result.
I know you can do it — this would be the best birthday gift you could give me.
I miss you all and wish you the best of luck,” Musa said.

Nigeria’s most-capped player also encouraged the team to replicate the fighting spirit they displayed in their last outing.

“So far, so good. I know we can do it again today. Best of luck,” he added.

The video surfaced just hours before the decisive Group C qualifier at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, where the Super Eagles must win to stay in contention for a place at the 2026 World Cup.

Having missed out on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Nigeria faces the prospect of failing to qualify for consecutive tournaments for the first time since making its debut in 1994.

The Eagles currently sit third in the group with 14 points, three behind leaders Benin Republic and one adrift of South Africa. To advance, Nigeria must beat Benin and hope South Africa fail to win against Rwanda in Mbombela. Even if Bafana Bafana win, the Eagles will still need a convincing victory to secure a playoff berth.

Nigeria will be without Ademola Lookman (suspended), while Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel miss out through injury.

Kick-off is scheduled for 5 p.m. at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo.