The tactical battle will be intriguing, with Nigeria expected to dictate the tempo against a compact and disciplined Benin team. The home side's primary challenge will be to break down Benin's low block without the creative spark of the suspended Ademola Lookman. This places a greater emphasis on the individual brilliance of players like Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze. Nigeria's midfield, anchored by Wilfred Ndidi, must control the center of the park and prevent Benin from launching effective counter-attacks through their primary outlet, Steve Mounié. Benin's advantage lies in their tactical familiarity under Gernot Rohr, who knows the Nigerian setup inside and out. They are likely to concede possession and focus on defensive solidity, hoping to frustrate the Super Eagles and capitalize on a set-piece or a fast break. The longer the match remains scoreless, the more Benin's confidence will grow. However, the sheer difference in individual quality, coupled with the desperation of playing at home in a must-win scenario, heavily favors Nigeria. The provided odds, with Nigeria at 1.34 for the win, reflect this disparity. While Benin has been impressive, their recent victories have come against lesser opposition. Facing a motivated Nigerian team, even one hampered by absences, on home soil is a different caliber of challenge. The data points towards a Nigerian victory, likely secured by one or two decisive moments of quality rather than an attacking onslaught, making a 2-0 scoreline and under 2.5 total goals the most probable outcomes.