Benin vs Nigeria: Finidi Explains Why Super Eagles’ Clash Against Rohr’s Cheetahs Could Be Tricky

• The Super Eagles of Nigeria will lock horns with the Republic of Benin in round four of the FIFA qualification series
• The Nigerian national team have been held to draws in their opening three fixtures including against South Africa
• Coach of the side, Finidi George, has explained why the crunch clash against the Cheetahs could prove to be tricky

The Super Eagles of Nigeria are presented with another chance to secure their maiden victory in the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification series, with a clash against Benin Republic on the horizon.

The team, who were held to a draw in their last outing against South Africa, are faced with the daunting task of getting a victory over the Cheetahs today (June 10) to ensure their campaign gets back on track.

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However, the coach of the side, Finidi George, has explained why the clash against the Republic of Benin could prove to be a tricky fixture for his Super Eagles team.

Finidi speaks on Benin Republic clash

In his pre-match press conference, as reported by AllNigeriaSoccer, the 53-year-old emphasised that the opponents are with a psychological advantage heading into this fixture.

"They just won their last match, and their morale is going to be very high," he stated. "We know the match will be tough, and we'll see how we need to play. Their recent win means their spirits are high."

Benin Republic recently ended their six-game winless run with a hard-fought victory over Rwanda. This victory positions Gernot Rohr's side as favourites to secure a spot in the next edition of the FIFA World Cup.

However, the last two meetings between these West African nations have ended in victories for Nigeria, with the most recent occurring in March 2021, according to data courtesy of FotMob.

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Finidi sends a strong message to Rohr

Sports Brief also previously reported on Super Eagles coach, Finidi, sending a message to his Benin Republic counterpart, Rohr, ahead of their crucial qualification showdown.

The two teams will meet for the first time since 2021 at the Stade Félix Houphouët-Boigny in Ivory Coast. Rohr previously served as Nigeria's national coach from 2016 to 2021.