Nigeria will host Benin in a decisive Group C clash on the final matchday of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Confederation of African Football (CAF) first-round qualifiers, with both nations eyeing direct qualification to next year’s tournament.
The Super Eagles face a daunting task: Benin currently lead Group C by three points and have a two-goal advantage on goal difference. This means that only a win will keep Nigeria’s qualification hopes alive—either as group winners or as runners-up eligible for the interconfederation playoff scheduled for November, which could award Africa a potential 10th World Cup slot.
For Benin, the equation is simple: a win or draw in Uyo against the three-time African champions will make history, sending the Cheetahs to the World Cup finals for the first time ever. Even if they lose, they could still qualify directly—depending on the outcome of South Africa’s final match.
Current Group C Standings
- Benin: 17 points (+5 GD)
- South Africa: 15 points (+3 GD)
- Nigeria: 14 points (+3 GD)
- Rwanda: 11 points (-1 GD)
- Lesotho: 9 points (-4 GD)
- Zimbabwe: 5 points (-6 GD)
How They Got Here
Late last month, Benin climbed to the top of Group C after South Africa were docked three points by FIFA for fielding an extra player in an earlier fixture. Benin then tightened their grip on the group after Banfa Banfa were held to a goalless draw by bottom-placed Zimbabwe on matchday nine.
Both Benin and Nigeria won their most recent games on Friday—Benin defeating Rwanda 1–0 and Nigeria overcoming Lesotho 2–1—to set up a thrilling finale.
What’s at Stake
A victory for Benin in Uyo would guarantee their maiden appearance at the World Cup. Anything less could open the door for either South Africa or Nigeria to snatch the group’s automatic qualification spot.
All matchday 10 fixtures will be played simultaneously on Tuesday, as the continent braces for one of the most dramatic finishes in this year’s CAF World Cup qualifying campaign.
