2026 WCQ: Why Super Eagles lost to Benin Republic – Finidi

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2026 WCQ: Why Super Eagles lost to Benin Republic – Finidi

Super Eagles head coach, Finidi George says poor defending and loss of concentration were responsible for his side’s 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic.

The former African champions now have a mountain to climb in their bid to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the shocking defeat.

Nigeria remain in fifth position in the Group C table with three points from four games.

It was the second time the Cheetahs would beat the Super Eagles in 17 meetings.

Gernot Rohr’s men top the standings with seven points.

“We scored a good goal and after that we lost concentration, they got their equaliser and then they got their momentum,” Finidi said during his interaction with media after the game.

“We didn’t defend well the long kick from the goalkeeper and they got their first goal.

“We had control of the game, but we didn’t defend well.

“If you don’t take your chances and don’t defend well in a World Cup qualifier, you pay for it.

“First half was good but for the goals (we conceded), while in the second half we pushed and defended well.”