Nigeria have qualified for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations without kicking a ball after Rwanda’s 1-0 defeat to Libya guaranteed the three-time continental champions a top-two finish in Group D.
The Super Eagles, who finished as runners-up in the 2023 tournament after losing 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast, become the fourth team to book their place in next year’s finals in Morocco.
The West African giants join Gabon, South Africa and defending Uganda in securing early qualification with two matches to spare.
Nigeria’s qualification was confirmed when Libya’s victory in Butare eliminated any possibility of the Super Eagles being overtaken by both Rwanda and Lybia.
Coach Austin Eguavoen’s side can now approach Thursday evening’s away clash against Benin at the Stade Felix Houphouet Boigny for Abidjan at (19:00 GMT) without pressure, as their neighbours could also seal qualification with a victory in what has become a mere formality for the Eagles.
The Super Eagles will be making their 20th appearance at the continental showpiece when the tournament kicks off in Morocco next year, as they seek to add to their previous titles won in 1980, 1994 and 2013.
