“We need to make a bold statement” – Mutiu Adepoju sets target for Super Eagles ahead of Benin showdown

Former Real Madrid star Mutiu Adepoju has stated that he expects the Super Eagles to defeat Benin when both teams clash in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations Qualifiers on Thursday, Soccernet.ng reports.

Nigeria take on Benin at the Stade Felix Houphouet-Boigny on Thursday in their penultimate game of the qualifiers.

It will be their third meeting this year, with both teams sharing the wins in the first two meetings. However, the Super Eagles have been in great form recently and are odds on favorites to claim the vital three points.

Ahead of the game, retired Super Eagles midfielder Mutiu Adepoju has shared his expectations for the fixture. The former Real Madrid man believes Nigeria have a point to prove, and they have to use the game to make a strong statement.

“Definitely I’m looking forward to a victory and a good game from the Super Eagles, and I believe they can do it,” Adepoju exclusively told Soccernet.ng.

“It’s going to be important to win the game. It is important to me, it is important to the players and everyone in Nigeria to win that game because we have to make a bold statement against Benin Republic.

“Number one, to qualify for the AFCON. Then secondly, to make them know that what they did, beating us in June was just by the way. It’s not as if they are superior to Nigeria. The players should show that, so we can be proud.

A win for Nigeria would automatically seal their place at the 2025 AFCON. Benin would also be motivated to win, as they have a good shot at qualifying.