The upcoming AFCON 2025 qualifier match between Nigeria and Benin has sparked interest among football fans, particularly due to the unexpected benching of star striker Victor Osimhen. This crucial game holds significant weight for both teams as they vie for a spot in the prestigious African Cup of Nations tournament.
The decision to keep Osimhen on the sidelines has raised eyebrows and prompted speculation about Nigeria's strategy for this important fixture.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face their West African neighbors, attention has shifted to the attacking trio of Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, and Samuel Chukwueze. These players are now tasked with leading Nigeria's offensive efforts in Osimhen's absence.
The match also promises an intriguing midfield battle, with both teams fielding talented players in this crucial area of the pitch. As the game approaches, fans and pundits alike are eager to see how Nigeria's altered lineup will perform against a determined Benin side.
The Osimhen Situation: Late Arrival and Bench Role
Victor Osimhen, Africa's current Player of the Year, has found himself in an unexpected position for Nigeria's crucial Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Benin Republic. The star striker arrived at the Super Eagles' base in Uyo on Thursday, three days after the team began preparations for the game 1. His late arrival was due to finalizing a last-minute move to Galatasaray, following a summer dominated by transfer rumors.
The delay meant Osimhen missed key training sessions on Tuesday and Wednesday, raising concerns about his match fitness. Despite joining his teammates for Thursday's session, interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has opted to start the 25-year-old forward on the bench. This decision stems from Osimhen's lack of preparation time and the fact that he hasn't played any competitive games for the past three months.
While the Super Eagles will miss Osimhen's firepower from the start, he could still play a crucial role if brought on during the latter stages of the game 1. His goal-scoring ability and knack for stretching defenses might prove key in unlocking a stubborn Benin side 1.
Nigeria's Attacking Trio: Lookman, Boniface, and Chukwueze
With Victor Osimhen benched, Nigeria's attacking responsibilities fall to Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, and Samuel Chukwueze. Lookman, fresh off a stellar performance in the UEFA Europa League final where he scored a hat-trick for Atalanta, brings momentum to the Super Eagles' frontline. His recent form, including three goals at AFCON 2023, positions him as a potential game-changer against Benin.
Victor Boniface, despite being initially named as a substitute, could play a crucial role if called upon. The Bayer Leverkusen striker, who contributed significantly to his club's Bundesliga triumph with 21 goals and 10 assists, offers a potent attacking option. Samuel Chukwueze, known for his skill and pace, completes this dynamic trio.
Coach Finidi George's decision to start with this combination reflects a shift towards a more attacking mindset, aligning with his stated intention to move away from the defensive tactics employed at AFCON.
Midfield Battle: Nigeria vs Benin
The midfield battle promises to be a key factor in Nigeria's AFCON qualifier against Benin. Leicester City's Wilfred Ndidi is expected to anchor the team alongside Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, with Alex Iwobi providing creativity in a central role. This trio forms a formidable midfield combination, blending defensive stability with attacking flair.
Interim coach Augustine Eguavoen has already worked with most of these players before, suggesting familiarity with his tactics and style of play. Â However, he'll need to be cautious about revealing too much of his strategy, learning from past mistakes where opponents were able to prepare accordingly due to excessive information sharing.
The Super Eagles' midfield will face a determined Benin side that has lost just one of their last five games 8. Despite being underdogs, Benin's coach Gernot Rohr remains optimistic about his young team's chances, emphasizing their fighting spirit and unity on the pitch.
As the AFCON 2025 qualifier between Nigeria and Benin approaches, the unexpected benching of Victor Osimhen has sparked interest and debate. The Super Eagles' altered lineup, featuring Lookman, Boniface, and Chukwueze leading the attack, presents an intriguing tactical shift. This change, along with the midfield battle between Nigeria's experienced trio and Benin's determined young squad, sets the stage for a captivating match.
The outcome of this qualifier will have a significant impact on both teams' paths to the African Cup of Nations. Nigeria's strategy without their star striker from the start will be put to the test, while Benin aims to prove themselves as underdogs. As fans eagerly await the kickoff, this match promises to deliver excitement and potentially reshape the qualifying landscape for AFCON 2025.
