FIFA Appoints Egyptian Referee Amin Mohamed Omar for Nigeria vs Benin World Cup Qualifier

The FIFA Referees Committee has confirmed that Egyptian official Amin Mohamed Omar will take charge of the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

The Group C matchday 10 encounter is scheduled for Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, Uyo.

Omar will be joined by an all-Egyptian officiating crew, while Ghana’s Prosper Addo has been named Match Commissioner for the clash.

With just two rounds of matches left in the qualifiers, the stakes could not be higher. Benin Republic currently lead the group with 14 points from eight games, while Nigeria sit in third with 11 points, making this fixture pivotal in the race for top spot and automatic qualification.

Opinion:

Appointing Amin Mohamed Omar — one of Africa’s more experienced referees — is FIFA’s way of ensuring neutrality and quality officiating in what is shaping up to be a decisive clash. Nigeria vs Benin Republic is no longer just a West African derby; it’s now a battle for a World Cup ticket, and every decision on the pitch will matter.

For Nigeria, this is more than a must-win. Anything less than three points at home could leave the Super Eagles chasing shadows in the final round. For Benin, led by Gernot Rohr, it’s an opportunity to prove their recent rise is no fluke by holding their nerve on Nigerian soil.

Beyond the tactical battles, refereeing consistency will play a big role. African football fans know all too well how a single contentious decision can swing momentum, especially in high-stakes qualifiers. That’s why the presence of an experienced referee like Omar should, at least in theory, bring some reassurance.

In short, October 14 is not just another date — it’s judgment day in Uyo. The referee may wear black, but for Nigeria and Benin Republic, the night will either end in green celebration or golden disappointment.