David Flower
Dailysports's expert
In one of the fifth-round matches of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Benin will host Nigeria in Abidjan on Thursday. Here's a betting tip with solid chances of success for this encounter.
Match Preview
Benin has been performing well in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, currently sitting in third place after four rounds, trailing leaders Rwanda and South Africa only on goal difference. In the last two matches, Benin secured victories over Rwanda (1-0) and their upcoming opponent Nigeria (2-1).
In the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, Benin is also making a strong push to qualify for the continental tournament. After four matches, they are in second place, just one point ahead of Rwanda. Benin has won at home against Libya and Rwanda, but they suffered heavy losses away to Nigeria (0-3) and Rwanda (1-2).
On the other hand, Nigeria has been struggling in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, sitting in fifth place after four rounds with only three points. They are yet to win a match, having drawn three times and losing once. They are currently four points behind the top three teams.
However, Nigeria's Africa Cup of Nations campaign is going much better. In the qualifiers, the Super Eagles have been unbeaten so far, with three wins, including victories over Benin and Libya. Nigeria leads the group with 10 points, four ahead of Benin.
Probable Lineups
- Benin: Dandjinou; Mumini, Huntondji, Tijani, Roch; D'Almeida, Imuran, Dossou; Dodo, Olaytan, Mounie
- Nigeria: Nwabali, Ajayi, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Aina, Ndidi, Dele-Bashiru, Oniemaechi, Chukwueze, Lookman, Boniface
Match Facts and Head-to-Head
- Nigeria has won 4 out of the last 5 encounters with Benin, with only one defeat in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers this summer.
- In three out of the last five matches involving Nigeria, the "Total Over 2.5" bet was successful.
- Only two of the last five meetings between these teams have seen both teams scoring.
Prediction
Nigeria comfortably defeated Benin at home, but they have already experienced a defeat away. This time, we expect them to approach the match more cautiously, and our bet is on "Benin to Win with a +1.0 Handicap" at odds of 1.75.
