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The Nigeria Football Federation released a strongly-worded statement after Monday’s defeat condemning their opponents for disregarding the nation’s new anthem.
Nigeria have slammed Benin authorities for not heeding their message to play the West African nation’s new national anthem before Monday’s World Cup qualifier in Abidjan.
The Super Eagles were beaten 2-1 by the Cheetahs in their fourth qualifying, leaving the three-time African champions second-bottom in Group C after picking three points from an available 12.
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[WATCH]: Benin vs Nigeria: Shock as old national anthem played before kick-off
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21:15 - 10.06.2024
Super Eagles: Nigeria are becoming World Cup qualifying no-hopers
While three straight draws papered over the cracks, losing to Benin underlines the uphill task Finidi George faces to prevent back-to-back World Cup absences.
However, the match’s aftermath has been marred by remarks pointing to Benin’s disregard for Nigeria’s national anthem change. Arise, O Compatriots was the nation's anthem from 1978 until May 29, 2024, with the country returning to its old one in use from 1960 until 1978.
“Nigeria, we hail thee” was sung in the Super Eagles’ recent qualifier against South Africa in Uyo last Friday but a mixup on Monday saw the old anthem used, with the NFF taking umbrage at Benin’s oversight.
“We gave them the recording of out new national anthem, only for them to play the wrong one at the beginning of the match," read the NFF Communications department’s statement. "We protested strongly, and insisted that the Super Eagles would not start the second half until the new national anthem of Nigeria was played."
What comes next for the Super Eagles?
Finidi George’s men trail Benin by four points after round four, and could fall five behind Group C’s leaders if Lesotho beat Rwanda on Tuesday. The Super Eagles' next game in qualifying takes place against Rwanda in March 2025.
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