Predicting Nigeria’s XI to face Benin in 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier – Finidi George to turn to Samuel Chukwueze as desperate Super Eagles seek redemption?

Predicting Nigeria's XI to face Benin in 2026 Fifa World Cup qualifier - Finidi George to turn to Samuel Chukwueze as desperate Super Eagles seek redemption?

Fresh from being frustrated to a 1-1 draw at home by Bafana Bafana, Nigeria now visit Benin at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.

It was a result that saw the Super Eagles drop to position five in Group C.

They are now looking to redeem themselves and GOAL predicts how coach Finidi George could line up his men.

Stanley Nwabali, Super Eagles

GOALKEEPER: Stanley Nwabali

The Chippa United has conceded in Nigeria’s last five games, shipping in seven goals and would want to improve.

Bright Osayi-Samuel of Nigeria against Portugal.

RIGHT-BACK: Bright Osayi-Samuel

The Fenerbahce right-back played as a left-back against Bafana Bafana but could go back to his natural position.

Calvin Bassey Nigeria Jean-Philippe Krasso Ivory Coast Africa Cup of Nations 2023

LEFT-BACK: Calvin Bassey

The Fulham defender has been consistent for the Super Eagles but is under pressure to help George’s team not to concede.

Semi Ajayi

CENTRE-BACK: Semi Ajayi

Another defender under pressure to help the Super Eagles keep a clean sheet, Ajayi can be trusted at the heart of defence.

Chidozie Awaziem

CENTRE-BACK: Chidozie Awaziem

The Boavista defender could form a steely wall with Ajayi in central defence to neutralise Benin forwards.

Wilfred Ndidi

CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Wilfred Ndidi

Ndidi returned to the Super Eagles setup and captained them against Bafana Bafana. His leadership qualities will be put to test again at a time Nigeria desperately need maximum points.

Alex Iwobi, Super Eagles

CENTRAL MIDFIELDER: Alex Iwobi

The Fulham star is expected to rise to the occasion and help the Super Eagles in attack.

Samuel Chukwueze, Super Eagles

RIGHT FORWARD: Samuel Chukwueze

The AC Milan star came on as a substitute against South Africa and he could be the solution to score goals against Benin.

Watford midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru.

LEFT FORWARD: Fisayo Dele-Bashiru

The Turkey-based midfielder rescued Nigeria from the jaws of defeat with a second-half goal and that gives him confidence going into Monday’s match.

Kelechi Iheanacho, Super Eagles

CENTRE-FORWARD: Kelechi Iheanacho

Iheanacho has one goal in these qualifiers and would want to add his name on the scoresheet again.

Ademola Lookman Nigeria 2024

CENTRE-FORWARD: Ademola Lookman

The Atalanta attacker could not reproduce his Uefa Europa League final form against Bafana and will be under pressure to pick himself up.