Super Eagles skipper Ahmed Musa has called on his teammates to hand him the perfect birthday present — a World Cup qualifying victory — as Nigeria face Benin Republic today in Uyo.
In a birthday message shared on the Super Eagles’ official X handle, the 33-year-old veteran expressed how much the crucial fixture means to him, describing a win as the ideal way to celebrate his special day. Musa also urged the players to stay focused and build on their recent performance as they chase qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
“Hello guys, today is the day, and today is my birthday. We all know what is at stake when they get and wait for the result of South Africa–Rwanda. I know you can do it. This is the best birthday gift that you’re gonna give me, guys. I miss you all. I wish you best of luck,” Musa said in the video. He added, “Hope so far good. I know we can do it. Let’s do it again today. Best of luck.”
The video surfaced just hours before Nigeria’s must-win Group C showdown at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium. The Eagles, who missed out on the last World Cup in Qatar, are desperate to avoid back-to-back absences from football’s biggest stage — something that has never happened since their debut appearance in 1994. The pressure is high, and fans across the country are eagerly waiting to see how the team will respond to the challenge.
Nigeria currently occupy third place in the group with 14 points, trailing Benin Republic by three and South Africa by one. To stand a chance of progressing, the Eagles must defeat Benin and hope South Africa drop points against Rwanda in Mbombela. Should South Africa win, Nigeria would still need a dominant victory to secure a play-off berth. A slip-up today could prove costly, as qualification hopes are now hanging by a thread.
The team will, however, be without some key players — Ademola Lookman is suspended, while Ola Aina and Bright Osayi-Samuel are both ruled out due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, confidence remains high within the camp, as players and technical crew have vowed to give their all in what promises to be an intense battle.
Kick-off for the decisive encounter is set for 5 p.m. at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, where Musa hopes his teammates can turn his birthday wish into reality with a spirited performance that reignites Nigeria’s World Cup dream.
