Eko Hot Blog reports that Ahead of today’s matchday four fixture in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Nigeria at Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny in Ivory Coast, fans of the Benin National team have expressed confidence in their team’s chances.
In Cotonou, Benin’s largest city, Punch correspondent interviewed fans who remain confident in their team despite being labeled underdogs for the upcoming fixture.
Romaric Gomez, speaking to PUNCH Sports Extra, expressed belief in the Cheetahs’ ability to triumph despite Nigeria’s formidable reputation.
“Nigeria has strong players, and they have a reputation but they don’t play football with name.
“And I think Benin will surprise them on the pitch. If you underestimate us, we will win.
Benin Republic fans
“Nigeria have not won a game yet and we have so right now, we are doing better and I believe we’ll win again on Monday,” Gomez said.
A motorcyclist from Cotonou, who identified himself only as Fouhaad, confidently asserted Benin’s chances against the three-time African champions, stating unequivocally, “Benin will win, mark my words.”
When asked to name five players in the Benin squad, Fouhaad struggled to recall more than three.
However, he emphasized that the outcome of the game hinges on tactics rather than star players.
While acknowledging the popularity of Nigerian players like Gomez, he remained steadfast in his belief that victory is achievable for Benin.
Alade Obafemi, a Nigerian working in Benin as a translator for our correspondent, expressed skepticism about Benin’s chances.
“Benin can’t beat Nigeria, all these they’re saying is because they’re from the country.
“You see that they can’t mention their players. If they have good players, they’ll know five at least.
“Nigeria will win the game easily. I’m only worried because we are travelling too close between the games so we may not beat them too much but we’ll win,” he said.
Juanita, the manager of Hotel Mel Jomar, expressed her belief that Benin will emerge victorious.
She expressed a personal desire for winger Ademola Lookman to score, citing their shared Muslim faith as a reason for her support.
“I want Benin to win and I’ll pray that we win even if Nigeria is a strong team.
“I like Ademola Lookman and I want him to score and celebrate but I think Benin can beat Nigeria,” Juanita said.
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