‘Our destiny is in our own hands’ - Benin star looking forward to beating Nigeria in final qualifying game

The Republic of Benin stands just two matches away from securing a historic first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup. 

The Cheetahs have emerged as surprise contenders in their qualifying group above Nigeria and South Africa.

Following a points deduction for South Africa, Benin now leads Group C with 14 points from eight games. 

Victories in their final two matches against Rwanda and Nigeria would guarantee their spot at the 2026 tournament in North America.

The 23-year-old has spoken about his team's chances, viewing the situation as a golden opportunity for them.

"I honestly can’t wait. To be honest, I don’t know if it’s fully dawned on me yet how close we are to actually qualifying," Hountondji told FIFA. 

"Playing for the national team is a really special adventure and one that’s so rewarding on a human level. This is our country, so it means so much to us.

"If we manage to pick up the three points, we’ll be very handily placed ahead of our final game, against Nigeria," he explained. 

"I have so much love for this group of boys that just finding ourselves in this position now, as the qualifiers are coming to an end, is amazing.

"I’m really looking forward to seeing just how pumped and hungry we’ll be. We’ve got the chance to create great excitement and some incredible memories. I think we’re capable of getting the job done – anything is possible," he stated.

"We have two matches to go, and if we win them both, there’s a good chance we’ll qualify directly. Our destiny is in our own hands, so we have to believe in our chances. Benin have never made it before, and it’d be simply amazing."

Meanwhile, the Super Eagles of Nigeria face a tough challenge against Rohr's determined Benin side, with their task complicated by injuries to several key players.