2026 WCQs: Nigeria to miss Lookman against Benin
The Super Eagles of Nigeria will be without their key player Ademola Lookman when they face Benin Republic in an all important 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Tuesday.
Lookman received a yellow card in the 63rd minute of Nigeria’s 2-1 win over Lesotho in Polokwane for a foul on Fusi Matlabe.
The booking, his second of the qualifiers, means he will serve a one-match suspension and miss the decisive Group C encounter in Uyo.
Blow for Super Eagles
The absence of Lookman, one of Nigeria’s most consistent performers in attack, is a major setback as the team seeks a must-win result to boost its qualification chances.
Samuel Chukwueze is expected to step in for the Atalanta forward in the starting lineup.
Benin also hit by suspensions
Benin Republic will also be without two vital players, Yohan Roche and Sessi D’Almeida, who are both suspended after picking up bookings in their 1-0 win over Rwanda.
Head coach Gernot Rohr confirmed the duo’s absence, which weakens the Cheetahs’ defensive structure ahead of the tie.
Group C on a knife-edge
With Nigeria, Benin, and South Africa all still in contention for the top spot, Tuesday’s clash in Uyo promises to be decisive in shaping the race for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
