Nigeria vs Benin: 4 changes in Super Eagles confirmed XI as Chukwueze joins attacking quartet

Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle has made two bold calls in his starting XI for this evening’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Benin Republic.

The former Mali hboss has opted to drop captain William Troost-Ekong and forward Tolu Arokodare to the bench for the must-win clash. Nigeria face the Cheetahs of Benin at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, knowing anything short of victory could further damage their qualification hopes. The three-time African champions sit third in Group C with 14 points, one behind South Africa and three adrift of Benin Republic.

Chelle has gone with a 4-4-2 formation, spearheaded by in-form Akor Adams and Victor Osimhen, as the Super Eagles look to find the cutting edge they have often lacked in this qualifying series.

What Are the Factors Behind Chelle’s Super Eagles Line-Up

Chelle has made four changes from the team that defeated Lesotho 2–1 on Friday.

Captain William Troost-Ekong is rested, with two full matches in four days deemed too demanding for the defender, who has also struggled for consistency in recent appearances. Tolu Arokodare, who partnered Osimhen against Lesotho, is dropped after an ineffective showing that saw him occupy the same attacking lanes as the Galatasaray striker and miss key chances. His replacement, Akor Adams, marked his debut with a goal and now earns his first start.

At left back, Bruno Onyemaechi makes way for Zaidu Sanusi of FC Porto after a shaky run of form. Ademola Lookman is unavailable through suspension, paving the way for Samuel Chukwueze to start on the right flank.

Confirmed Super Eagles Line-Up vs Benin

Goalkeeper: Stanley Nwabali
Defenders: Benjamin Frederick, Semi Ajayi, Calvin Bassey, Zaidu Sanusi
Midfielders: Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi
Forwards: Moses Simon, Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Akor Adams