The Super Eagles failed to secure their first win in Group C of the Fifa World Cup qualifiers as they succumbed to a defeat to Benin on Monday.

Both teams began at a leisurely pace, Nigeria displaying patience in their attacks but lacking clarity in execution.

However, after 27 minutes, Super Eagles midfielder Raphael Onyedika broke the deadlock, receiving a pass from Samuel Chukwueze near the box and skillfully slotting the ball into the corner of the right post, leaving goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou helpless.

They unfortunately could not hold onto their lead, as 10 minutes later, Jodel Dossou capitalized on a defensive error by Nigeria to level the score in front of goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali.

Benin then extended their lead before the halftime whistle when striker Steve Mounié capitalized on a loose ball from a corner kick.

In the early stages of the second half, Nigeria opted for tactical adjustments, substituting Alex Iwobi and Terem Moffi for Paul Onuachu and Victor Boniface respectively, aiming to change their fortunes in the match.

Even though coach Finidi George’s team had several chances to equalize, they couldn’t convert them into goals, ultimately falling to a 2-1 defeat. This loss leaves Nigeria in fifth place in Group C, with Benin leading the table.

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