The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria's Super Eagles and Benin Republic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Tuesday is set to be a crucial encounter, marked by significant player absences for both teams. Nigeria will notably be without their in-form winger and reigning African Player of the Year, Ademola Lookman, while Benin Republic will miss two key players due to suspension.

Ademola Lookman, who plays for Atalanta, received his second consecutive yellow card during Nigeria’s recent 2-1 victory against Lesotho in Polokwane, South Africa. This booking occurred in the 63rd minute after a foul on Lesotho’s Fusi Matlabe. His first yellow card was issued on September 9 in a 1-1 draw against South Africa in Bloemfontein. According to FIFA rules, two yellow cards in the qualifying campaign result in an automatic one-match suspension, rendering him unavailable for the decisive clash against Benin. Lookman's absence is considered a major blow for the Super Eagles, as he has been one of their most consistent attacking threats with important goals in recent fixtures.

Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification saw a significant step forward with their win against Lesotho. William Troost-Ekong opened the scoring for Nigeria in the 55th minute from a penalty after a handball. Substitute Akor Adams then doubled the lead with a clinical finish in the 80th minute. Although Lesotho responded with a goal from Kalake in the 83rd minute, the Eagles held firm to secure the vital three points. Despite this victory, Nigeria currently sits third in Group C, trailing both Benin and South Africa. With only one game remaining, their fate is not entirely in their own hands, and improving goal difference by scoring more goals and maintaining a clean sheet could be decisive if teams finish level on points.

To mitigate Lookman’s absence, Fulham forward Samuel Chukwueze is expected to step into the starting lineup against Benin. Meanwhile, Benin Republic will also face the Super Eagles without two integral players: defender Yohan Roche and defensive midfielder Sessi D'Almeida. Both players are suspended after accumulating yellow cards in their recent 1-0 victory over Rwanda, a fact confirmed by Benin's head coach, Gernot Rohr.

Tuesday’s encounter in Uyo is anticipated to be a tense and fiercely contested match. Benin, Nigeria, and South Africa all remain in strong contention for the coveted top spot in Group C, which secures a ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The outcome of this match, coupled with other group results, will be critical in determining which nation advances from this highly competitive group.