The Super Eagles stormed into the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against the Benin Republic’s Cheetahs with an early statement — a blistering goal from Victor Osimhen just three minutes into the match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium, Uyo. Yet beneath the excitement lies a growing controversy: is Nigeria’s football supremacy fueled more by arrogance than genuine respect for its West African neighbors?
In a lineup shakeup featuring four changes from their previous win over Lesotho, including Wilfred Ndidi’s appointment as captain, Nigeria appears confident—perhaps too confident. The Nigeria Football Federation’s fanfare over Moses Simon’s 85th cap and the Osimhen-Akor Adams strike partnership contrasts sharply with Benin’s gritty determination, which many say is being dismissed unfairly by the footballing powerhouse next door.
Benin’s Cheetahs fought back fiercely, pushing for an equalizer in the 12th minute, only to be brutally shut down by Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey. But questions arise: Why is Nigeria so quick to write off Benin, a nation whose footballing talent is growing despite limited resources? Could this condescending attitude backfire, galvanizing the Cheetahs and exposing cracks in the Super Eagles’ armor?
At 14 minutes, Nigeria leads possession with 58%, but with just one shot on target apiece for both teams, critics are already slamming the Eagles for a lack of creativity and overreliance on star players like Osimhen. Social media is ablaze with debates — is Nigeria resting on past glories and regional dominance while ignoring the rising threat from neighbors like Benin? And politically, does this match reflect deeper tensions and rivalries simmering between the two countries, spilling onto the pitch?
As Nigeria flaunts its footballing might, some warn that hubris may be the Super Eagles’ greatest enemy. The battle is no longer just about World Cup qualification — it’s a clash of pride, power, and regional identity. If Nigeria underestimates Benin’s hunger, this early lead could quickly turn into a humiliating defeat that stings far beyond football.
