FIFA Names Egyptian Referee for Nigeria vs. Benin World Cup Qualifier
FIFA has confirmed Egyptian referee Omar Amin Mohamed Amin Mohamed as the man in the middle for Nigeria’s must-win 2026 World Cup qualifier against Benin, set for October 14 at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
He will be supported by assistant referees Mahmoud Ahmed Kamel Ahmed Aboulergal and Ali Ahmed Tawfik Teleb, while Moustafa Elbana Mahmoud Zakaria Mohamed takes on fourth official duties. Seychelles’ Jason Joseph Damoo will serve as referee assessor, Ghana’s Prosper Harrison Addo comes in as match commissioner, and Eswatini’s Xolile Nokuthula Vilakati will act as security officer.
The clash, kicking off at 5 p.m. local time, is shaping up to be a decisive moment for the Super Eagles. With Group C tightening after FIFA’s disciplinary ruling against South Africa, every point now matters.
Earlier this year, South Africa were found guilty of fielding an ineligible player, Teboho Mokoena, in their 2–0 win over Lesotho. The result was overturned, handing Lesotho a 3–0 victory and completely altering the group standings.
As things stand, Benin and South Africa share top spot with 14 points each, while Nigeria and Rwanda sit just behind on 11. Lesotho are suddenly back in the mix with nine, while Zimbabwe, on four points, are out of contention.
With so much on the line, the October 14 fixture could prove pivotal in deciding who secures a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.
