As Nigeria face a do-or-die final World Cup qualifying fixture against the Republic of Benin, head coach Eric Chelle is expected to rely on a familiar core of experienced players, with Victor Osimhen and Alex Iwobi set to lead the Super Eagles’ charge in Uyo.

The three-time African champions head into the encounter needing not only a win, but also help from elsewhere to keep their 2026 FIFA World Cup dream alive.

To qualify, Nigeria must beat Benin by at least two goals and hope that South Africa fails to defeat Rwanda.

Ahead of the encounter, here is the Super Eagles' possible line-up against Benin.

Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s top scorer in the qualifying campaign with three goals, will once again spearhead the attack. He is expected to be partnered by Tolu Arokodare, who impressed in the 2-1 victory over Lesotho on Friday.

Chelle is likely to stick with a 4-2-3-1 formation, allowing the forward line to blend Osimhen’s pace and power with Arokodare’s aerial presence.

On the wings, Moses Simon and Samuel Chukwueze are set to provide width and creativity, offering the Super Eagles plenty of attacking options from both flanks.

Despite mixed public opinions, Alex Iwobi remains key to Nigeria’s midfield structure. The Fulham playmaker is expected to start alongside Wilfred Ndidi, whose defensive stability will be crucial in protecting the back line and initiating counterattacks.

Iwobi’s ability to carry the ball through the middle and link play with Osimhen will be vital, especially with Ademola Lookman suspended after picking up a yellow card against Lesotho.

At the back, captain William Troost-Ekong is set to partner Calvin Bassey in central defence, providing leadership and composure in what promises to be a tense encounter.

Stanley Nwabali retains his place in goal after his mistakes against Lesotho on Friday, while Benjamin Tanimu Fredrick and Bruno Onyemaechi are expected to start at fullback.

Nwabali; Fredrick, Troost-Ekong, Bassey, Onyemaechi; Ndidi, Iwobi; Chukwueze, Simon; Osimhen, Arokodare.

Since making their debut in 1994, Nigeria have never missed two consecutive FIFA World Cups, a streak now under serious threat.

Chelle’s men currently sit third in Group C with 14 points from nine matches, trailing Benin (17 points) and South Africa (15 points).

Anything short of victory could end Nigeria’s campaign and deepen the sense of frustration that has defined their qualifying journey.

Kickoff is scheduled for 5:00 PM at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, where thousands of fans are expected to roar the Super Eagles on for one last push.