Super Eagles coach Austin Eguavoen has hailed the team’s spirited performance after Nigeria secured a spot in next year’s continental competition. Nigeria headed into the final round of qualification fixtures needing a point to give them qualification and they got that in the 1-1 draw with Benin Republic.
Austin Eguavoen on the game: “It was a tough game and I congratulate the players for a spirited display in the second half that earned us the equalizer.
The downpour made the game difficult for both teams, but I am happy we have the AFCON finals ticket in the bag”.
Eguavoen who is in his third stint as head coach, praised the players relentless efforts as they secured another qualification. Recall that he took over from former coach Finidi George who resigned after a 2-1 loss to the Cheetahs in a FIFA World cup qualification match.
“Coming into the game we had not lost a game. We wanted to maintain that and win the game, worst case scenario- a draw.
We wanted to qualify without defeat and we knew we were capable of that. We have whatever it takes to beat anybody, any day anytime.”
The Super Eagles lost to Ivory Coast in the finals of the last edition and Eguavoen has said they are hoping to go one better by winning the tournament.
“Nigeria is a team that is respected. We almost won the AFCON the last time and we have to maintain that standard.”
Nigeria are back in action when they face Rwanda in their final group game on Monday.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
