Super Eagles head coach, Eric Chelle, has called on Nigerians to transform the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium into a sea of noise and passion as the team prepares to face Benin Republic in Tuesday’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier in Uyo.
Chelle’s appeal comes after Nigeria’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Lesotho in Polokwane on Friday — a result that reignited the Super Eagles’ hopes of securing a World Cup ticket.
“I’m proud of my players and I congratulate them,” Chelle said after the game. “Since March, we’ve been under huge pressure because, for Nigeria, qualifying for the World Cup isn’t optional. My players feel that pressure every time they come to camp. But now, maybe it’s time for other teams to feel it too.”
The Malian coach urged home fans to create a fierce and intimidating atmosphere in Uyo, emphasizing that the team draws immense strength from the supporters’ energy.
“We need our fans behind us — loud, proud, and united. Let’s make it uncomfortable for Benin from the moment they land. This is a World Cup qualifier; the battle starts long before kickoff. We must finish the job on the pitch,” Chelle added.
Nigeria’s win over Lesotho came courtesy of second-half goals from captain William Troost-Ekong and debutant Akor Adams, though a late goalkeeping error from Stanley Nwabali allowed the visitors a consolation, setting up a tense finish.
The victory lifted the Super Eagles to third place in Group C with 14 points, trailing South Africa by one point and Benin Republic by three. To qualify automatically, Nigeria must defeat Benin decisively and hope that South Africa fails to beat Rwanda in Mbombela.
In other Group C fixtures, South Africa were held to a goalless draw by Zimbabwe in Durban, while Benin narrowly beat Rwanda 1-0, leaving the final matchday to decide the group’s fate.
Meanwhile, sources confirmed that the Super Eagles’ arrival in Uyo was delayed on Saturday following a technical fault with their chartered aircraft, prompting a brief adjustment to the team’s travel schedule.
