Benin Republic striker, Tosin Aiyegun, has promised that the Cheetahs will give their absolute best when they face the Super Eagles of Nigeria in their decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier next week in Uyo.
Aiyegun, who was the hero in Benin’s 1-0 win over Rwanda on Friday at the Amahoro Stadium, scored the only goal of the match ten minutes from full time to keep Gernot Rohr’s men at the top of Group C with 17 points from nine matches.
The result means Benin remain in a strong position to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in their history, but they must avoid defeat in Uyo to make that dream a reality.
Speaking after the match, the in-form forward acknowledged the quality of the Nigerian side but insisted that the Cheetahs are ready to fight until the final whistle.
“It won’t be easy there, but that’s football,” Aiyegun told Magasports. “We dreamed of playing a great match, and now it’s against Nigeria. We have to give it our all. Every player in our team understands what this game means to our country.”
Aiyegun also praised the unity and determination within the Benin squad, crediting head coach Gernot Rohr for instilling belief and discipline in the team. “The coach has given us confidence and structure. We believe in his plan and we want to repay him by qualifying for the World Cup,” he added.
The all-important encounter is scheduled for Tuesday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, where both sides will be chasing a result that could define their World Cup dreams.
Nigeria, who currently trail Benin in the standings, must win to keep their qualification hopes alive, while Benin will be targeting a result that would write their name in African football history.
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