Super Eagles caretaker coach Augustine Eguavoen has confidently stated that his team has arrived in Abidjan with one goal in mind: to defeat the Cheetahs of Benin Republic and secure their qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
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Although a single point would suffice to book their spot in the tournament, Eguavoen has set his sights on maximum points, underscoring his team’s determination. “We’ll fight for every ball and for every point, and that’s what we want to do tomorrow,” Eguavoen shared with the Super Eagles media.
He acknowledged the challenge Benin represents, describing them as “no pushovers,” but emphasized that Nigeria is focused and ready to achieve their objective. Eguavoen’s confidence is rooted not just in his team’s form but also in their strategic familiarity with Benin’s head coach, Gernot Rohr, who led the Super Eagles for six years and knows the players well.
“We worked with Gernot Rohr for many years. He was our head coach, and he’s a very good one, no doubt. He knows us in and out—he’s part of us,” Eguavoen said. Yet, he stressed that this familiarity works both ways: “We know him inside out as well.”
Eguavoen is well aware of the challenge but is firm in his respect for Nigeria’s position and reputation. “He knows Nigeria is a country you don’t toil with,” he added, underscoring that despite the respect between the teams, the Super Eagles are coming into this game with a singular mindset: to win. However, Eguavoen admits the path to victory is not a given, saying, “It’s easier said than done.”
The Super Eagles are determined to showcase their strength on the field, fully prepared to claim victory and secure their place in AFCON 2025.