Super Eagles fullback, Sodiq Ismail, has expressed confidence in Nigeria's ability to secure a victory against Benin Republic in their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The two West African rivals are set to face off at the Uyo Township Stadium on September 7, marking the start of the qualification campaign for Nigeria.
Just three days after the Uyo encounter, the Super Eagles will travel to Kigali to play Rwanda at the Amahoro Stadium, in what will be a crucial fixture for Nigeria's chances in the group.
Reflecting on Nigeria's recent 2-1 defeat to Benin Republic in a 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers match in Ivory Coast in June, Ismail remained optimistic.
In an interview with Allnigeriasoccer, the 21-year-old fullback expressed his belief in the team's resilience and determination to come out victorious.
"I will say that we are going to win because a few weeks ago in Cote d'Ivoire we lost one against Benin Republic and next week we are going to come out victorious," he stated.
The loss to the Benin Republic in June was a significant blow to Nigeria's World Cup qualification hopes, leaving the Super Eagles winless in their first four matches of the qualifiers and placing them in fifth position in Group C.
The setback has raised concerns about Nigeria's chances of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Sodiq Ismail received his first call-up to the Nigerian senior national team in June under former head coach Finidi George. He made his debut in the disappointing 2-1 loss to Benin Republic in Abidjan, Ivory Coast.
Despite the challenging start to his international career, Ismail remains focused on helping his team achieve positive results in the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.
The Super Eagles will aim to bounce back from their recent struggles and start their 2025 AFCON qualification campaign on a strong note against the Benin Republic in Uyo.
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