Nigeria, Benin Lose Key Players to Suspension Ahead of Must-Win Group C Clash.
The decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria’s Super Eagles and the Benin Republic’s Cheetahs on Tuesday will be contested without three crucial starters, all ruled out due to accumulation of yellow cards in previous fixtures.
Nigeria, fighting to secure their spot in the global tournament, will be without star attacker Ademola Lookman. The Atalanta forward picked up his second booking in the 64th minute of the Super Eagles’ 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday, triggering an automatic one-match ban under CAF regulations.
Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle acknowledged the setback but maintained confidence in his squad’s capacity to cope.
“The team remains focused and confident,” Chelle stated, downplaying the impact of the loss. “Lookman’s suspension is unfortunate, but we have enough depth to compete effectively. Every player must be mentally prepared to contribute, whether as a starter or substitute.”
The visiting Benin side, coached by former Nigeria manager Gernot Rohr, will also be significantly weakened, losing both defensive midfielder Sessi d’Almeida and central defender Yohan Roche. The duo received their second yellow cards during the Cheetahs’ recent 1-0 win over Rwanda
Rohr described the double suspension as a blow but stressed that the Group C race remains wide open for the leading teams.
“We have lost two players because of a second yellow card,” Rohr confirmed, adding a note of suspense to the final group matchday. “But all is possible for the three teams (South Africa, Benin and Nigeria). The decision is in our hands. This can be a little advantage. Big suspense until the end.”
The final Group C fixture in Uyo is a critical encounter, with Nigeria needing a victory and favorable results elsewhere to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
