Nigeria will be guided by caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen when they seek revenge against neighbours Benin as 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying kicks off on Wednesday.
He was a late replacement after German Bruno Labbadia reportedly changed his mind about taking charge because the Nigeria Football Federation declined to foot his tax bill.
Former Bundesliga manager Labbadia had been lined up to confront compatriot Gernot Rohr, who masterminded a 2-1 victory by Benin over Nigeria three months ago in a 2026 World Cup qualifier.
Jodel Dossou and Steve Mounie scored for the Benin Cheetahs as they came from behind to stun opponents 52 places higher in the world rankings.
Victory was particularly sweet for 71-year-old Rohr as he spent five years in charge of Nigeria before being sacked amid mounting public pressure related to disappointing results.
Losing to Benin triggered the departure of former star Finidi George after just four matches as the Super Eagles coach.
Nigeria were runners-up to hosts Ivory Coast in the 2024 Cup of Nations final and are blessed with abundant attacking talent.
Reigning African Footballer of the Year Victor Osimhen, Victor Boniface and Ademola Lookman are some of the stars Eguavoen can choose for the Group D showdown in southeastern city Uyo.
Here, AFP Sport looks at five other high-profile opening-round fixtures to be played between Wednesday and Saturday.