Nigeria Keen To Prevent Double Humbling Against Benin
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are prepared to prevent another disgraceful defeat at the hands of the Cheetahs of Benin Republic as they face off in their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying opener on Saturday at Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
The Super Eagles are ready for revenge, with memories of their shocking 2-1 World Cup qualifier defeat to their neighbours still fresh.
The June defeat became Nigeria’s first competitive loss to Benin Republic, which led to the resignation of former head coach George Finidi, who was asked to step down from the position by the Nigeria Football Federation.
The Cheetahs, managed by former Super Eagles gaffer Gernot Rohr, took advantage of Nigeria’s defensive lapses to clinch a historic victory, leaving the Super Eagles with much to prove as they return to home soil.
As Augustine Eguavoen took charge, the three-time African champions will be looking to reassert their dominance.
Eguavoen, in his fourth stint as head coach, has called for a renewed sense of commitment from his players as they seek not just to avenge their World Cup setback but also to establish themselves as firm favourites in Group D.
“We’ve been working hard, and I believe we can take maximum points in both matches. I trust the players, and we have the resources to succeed,” said Eguavoen, who is also set to face Rwanda next Tuesday.
“Our focus is on getting six points from both games. The players understand what’s at stake, and we’re fully committed to this objective,” the coach stated.
Meanwhile, Rohr is eyeing another win against the three-time African champions.
“It will be nice to meet with my boys in the Super Eagles. The team hasn’t changed much from the one I left behind two years ago, so technically they are still my boys, but we will keep all of that aside on the pitch on Saturday,” Rohr said.
“Nigeria have players in big teams unlike my team, but we have shown three months ago that we can win against any team. It is what we are hoping against the Super Eagles, even though we know it will be difficult because they are playing at home.”
At the pre-match press conference on Friday, Benin Republic forward Steve Mounié, who scored in their last meeting, revealed the secret of their recent impressive form.
“With the spirit we have in the team now, we don’t give up,” the Augsburg forward said.
“We will try to fight together on the pitch, and that will be important tomorrow. It doesn’t matter who scores or makes the assist; the most important thing tomorrow is to get a result.”
The visitors have improved significantly under Rohr, securing three wins in their last 12 matches, and they’ll be buoyed by their recent victory over Nigeria.
The Godswill Akpabio Stadium is expected to be packed as the Super Eagles aim to shake off their recent poor form, accentuated by a three-match winless streak. A win on Saturday will be crucial for Nigeria, not only to boost their confidence but also to keep their AFCON qualification hopes
alive.
Ejiofor Ezeifeoma-Lagos
