Benin will face the Tremendous Eagles of Nigeria with out two of their key gamers in Tuesday’s 2026 World Cup qualifier — a improvement that would profit their Group C rivals.
Midfielder Sessi D’Almeida and defender Yohan Roche are each suspended after receiving yellow playing cards in Benin’s 1–1 draw towards Rwanda on Friday. D’Almeida was booked within the 84th minute, whereas Roche was proven a yellow card deep into stoppage time, ruling each gamers out of the essential match in Abidjan.
The absence of the 2 reliable gamers comes at a troublesome time for Benin, who at the moment sit prime of Group C however haven’t but secured qualification. Their suspension may function a lift for Nigeria and South Africa, who’re each preventing to qualify for subsequent yr’s international event.
Nigeria, who’re chasing a significant win to enhance their qualification hopes, will probably be glad to face a weakened Benin aspect. South Africa, in the meantime, will probably be hoping the Tremendous Eagles win, however they have to additionally beat Rwanda to take full benefit of a doable Benin defeat.
Nonetheless, the Tremendous Eagles even have a setback of their very own. Ahead Ademola Lookman, not too long ago topped CAF African Footballer of the 12 months, will miss the match by way of suspension after receiving a yellow card within the 2–1 victory over Lesotho.
In Lookman’s absence, head coach Eric Chelle is anticipated at hand a beginning position to Samuel Chukwueze as Nigeria purpose for a vital outcome towards their West African neighbours.
The ultimate Group C fixtures promise to be decisive, with not one of the groups but assured a spot on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
