In a dramatic turn of events during the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a playoff lifeline with a resounding 4-0 victory over Benin, a result that saw the Cheetahs bow out of contention, Softfootball reports.
The match, held in Uyo, not only reignited Nigeria’s hopes but also highlighted the complex journey of Tunde Adelakun, the former Nigerian assistant coach and scout now leading Benin’s technical staff.
Adelakun, who once discovered talents like Alex Iwobi ,currently plying his trade for Fulham in the Premier League,Ola Aina with Nottingham forest and so on—shared his reflections with BBC Media via their official X handle. Speaking about his transition from Nigeria to Benin, he stated:
Nigeria gave us great history. Nigerian grave was great times. There’s nothing to get back at. Only that fate has brought us here and we’ve just got to grab it.
This defeat marks a significant moment for Benin, who had been on the cusp of a historic World Cup appearance. Despite their earlier promise, the 4-0 loss to Nigeria dashed their dreams, leaving them third in Group C with 17 points, level with Nigeria but trailing on goal difference. Nigeria’s victory, fueled by Victor Osimhen’s hat-trick and Frank Onyeka’s late goal, ensured they finished as one of the four best second-placed teams, earning a playoff spot.
Adelakun’s journey with Benin began after his dismissal by the Nigeria Football Federation in 2023. Embracing the challenge, he saw it as an opportunity to build a “brand new project” for the underdog nation. “There is an opportunity to create a story out of this small nation,” he had earlier expressed, underscoring his commitment to elevating Benin’s global football profile.
Tunde Adelakun spoke at length to the bbc Africa media in a video shared by the official X handle of the news station, watch the full video below:
The irony of facing Nigeria, a team he once served, was not lost on Adelakun. His role in scouting players like Iwobi, who has become a mainstay in the Premier League, racking over 300 premier league appearances, adds a layer of emotional feel ito his current position. Yet, his focus remains on the future, as he navigates the complexities of loyalty and ambition in African football.
As Benin licks its wounds and Nigeria prepares for the playoffs, Adelakun’s words resonate with a sense of acceptance and forward-looking determination. There’s nothing to get back at, he reiterated, shows a philosophy that transcends the immediate heartbreak and looks towards new horizons in the beautiful game.
