Super Eagles didn’t struggle against Benin Republic – Eguavoen

By Tosin Omojola

Super Eagles’ interim coach, Augustine Eguavoen, has dismissed claims that his team struggled against Benin Republic during their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match on Thursday due to a strategy centered on securing a draw.

A late header from Victor Osimhen in the 81st minute salvaged a 1-1 draw for the Super Eagles after the Cheetahs had taken an early lead in the 16th minute. This result sparked criticism from fans and analysts, many of whom questioned Eguavoen’s tactical approach in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

The main gripe among critics was the perception that Eguavoen instructed his players to adopt a cautious approach, seemingly content with a draw. However, the former Nigerian captain refuted such claims, asserting that his team’s pre-match knowledge of their AFCON qualification status did not influence his game plan.

Eguavoen acknowledged during the post-match conference that Nigeria had already secured their ticket to the 2025 AFCON in Morocco before the game. However, he insisted that this did not lead him to take the match lightly.

Defensive Approach Questioned

Fans pointed to Eguavoen’s choice of a five-man backline, suggesting it reflected a defensive mindset aimed at avoiding defeat. Analysts argued that the group standings prior to the match showed that a draw was sufficient for qualification, making it plausible that Eguavoen opted for a risk-averse strategy.

In fact, Nigeria’s task was made even simpler just before kickoff when Libya defeated Rwanda 1-0, ensuring that no other team in the group could surpass Nigeria’s points tally. Even a loss in Abidjan would not have jeopardized their qualification.

This development fueled speculation that Eguavoen approached the game with less intensity. However, the coach, fondly known as “Cerezo,” dismissed these assertions, emphasizing his determination to maintain Nigeria’s unbeaten run in the qualifiers.

Eguavoen’s Perspective

Speaking after the match, Eguavoen said:
“Coming into this game, we had not lost a match, and we wanted to maintain that.

“We would try to win the game, or worst-case scenario, we draw. We want to qualify without losing a game.”

Although his remarks seemed to align with the critics’ perception of playing for a draw, Eguavoen doubled down on his belief in his team’s ability to win against any opponent.

“We know what we are capable of. We have the quality and what it takes to beat any team, anytime,” he added.

Eguavoen also admitted there was some pressure on the team but clarified that it did not influence his tactics, as the players overcame the tension before the game.

“Nigeria is a team that is respected. We almost won the AFCON last time, and we have to maintain that standard,” he emphasized.

What’s Next?

Attention now shifts to Nigeria’s final group game against Rwanda at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo on Monday. While the match has no bearing on Nigeria’s qualification, Rwanda desperately needs a win to overtake Benin Republic and stave off pressure from Libya.

Currently sitting fourth with four points, Libya could leapfrog Benin Republic (six points) and Rwanda (five points) if both lose their final games. Libya’s impressive win in Kigali on Thursday sets them up for a potential victory at home against Benin, while hoping Nigeria and Rwanda draw in Uyo.

As the group standings remain tight for the second qualification spot, all eyes will be on the final matches to determine who will join Nigeria in Morocco for the 2025 AFCON.