By Aiwu Esele
Super Eagles of Nigeria, on Monday, failed to soar after taking an early lead in the 29th minutes goal by Raphael Onyedika and had their wings clipped by The Cheetahs of Benin, who came from behind to level and increased the tally 2-1 in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
All goals came in the first half of the game.
After Raphael Onyedika’s effort to the right corner of the post opened scoring for Nigeria, in the 29th minutes, Dossou of Benin capitalized on a defensive blunder by the Super Eagles defense to level up, while Steve Mounie slotted in the second from a corner shortly before halftime.
The Super Eagles lost despite the introduction of Victor Boniface, Paul Onuachu, and Ibrahim Olawoyin, among others. Still, Super Eagles was unable to equalise.
Meanwhile, losing this match means that Nigeria is now placed fifth, while the Benin Republic moves up to first place in the six-team table.
Nigeria, in four matches, has drawn three and lost one.
Last Friday, Pressure mounted on the Super Eagles after the team played a 1-1 draw against Bafana Bafana of South Africa in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifier in the match played at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
