Predicted Super Eagles XI vs Benin: Boniface, Ekong, Lookman to start; Osimhen, Ndah on the bench

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are set to face the Cheetahs of Benin tomorrow at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Soccernet.ng reports.

With the goal of securing maximum points in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Gernot Rohr’s men, interim coach Augustine Eguavoen is expected to field his strongest lineup.

One of the key talking points among Nigerian football fans is whether star striker Victor Osimhen, who resumed training just yesterday, will start the match after only two days of practice.

Although Osimhen’s limited time in camp may raise concerns, Eguavoen, a former KAA Gent defender, is known for trusting his top players, regardless of preparation time.

In goal, Chippa United’s Stanley Nwabali is expected to retain his starting role, following an impressive display at the 2023 AFCON. With Maduka Okoye arriving late to camp, Nwabali’s recent form has cemented his position as the number one goalkeeper.

In defence, Super Eagles vice-captain William Troost-Ekong and full-back Ola Aina have both returned to the squad after missing the previous clash against Benin Republic.

The expected backline will likely feature Troost-Ekong partnering Semi Ajayi in the centre, with Calvin Bassey and Ola Aina as the full-backs, reverting to the defensive setup from the 2023 AFCON.

In midfield, Leicester City’s Wilfred Ndidi is expected to anchor the team alongside Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, with Alex Iwobi providing creativity in a central role.

Leading the attack will be in-form Bayer Leverkusen striker Victor Boniface, supported by Ademola Lookman and Moses Simon on the flanks.

Predicted XI

Nwabali; Aina, Ekong, Ajayi, Bassey; Ndidi, Dele-Bashiru, Iwobi; Lookman, Boniface, Moses

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master’s Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.